α-defensin expression in the gastric tissue of children with helicobacter pylori-associated chronic gastritis: An immunohistochemical study

Soylu O. B., ÖZTÜRK Y., ÖZER E.

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, vol.46, no.4, pp.474-477, 2008 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 46 Issue: 4
  • Publication Date: 2008
  • Doi Number: 10.1097/mpg.0b013e31815a9923
  • Journal Name: Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus
  • Page Numbers: pp.474-477
  • Keywords: children, chronic gastritis, defensin, Helicobacter pylori, EPITHELIAL-CELLS, INNATE IMMUNITY, INFECTION, NEWBORN, SYSTEM, HBD-2
  • Dokuz Eylül University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

In this study, we evaluated the expression of α-defensin and its correlation with histological criteria in children with and without Helicobacter pylori-associated gastritis. Forty-five children were included. Immunohistochemical staining was performed and the relationship between α-defensin immunoscoring and H pylori status and histological criteria was evaluated. Expression of α-defensin was significantly higher in the H pylori-positive group (P < 0.001) and it was significantly associated with higher grades of chronic inflammation and neutrophil density (P < 0.001 for both). Our data show that α-defensin expression is increased in H pylori infection in childhood and is associated with inflammatory tissue damage. © 2008 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.