A reduced COX-2 expression and a reduced number of pericryptal myofibroblasts are associated with depressed adenoma of the colon.

The histogenesis of depressed adenoma of the colon has not been sufficiently investigated. Pericryptal myofibroblasts are stromal cells expressing smooth muscle actin, and are involved in the differentiation and multiplication of epithelial cells in the colonic epithelium. COX-2 has been reported to be involved in the development of colon adenoma.

Relationship between molecular markers and endoscopic findings in laterally spreading tumors.

Background And Aim: Characteristic clinicopathological features of laterally spreading tumors (LSTs) have been reported by endoscopists; however, only a few studies have been conducted on the biological features. These studies were not fully associated with the endoscopic findings of LSTs. The aim of this study was to estimate the biological features of each type of endoscopic finding of LST using two molecular markers, matrix metalloproteinase-7 (MMP-7) and beta-catenin.

Clinical significance of measuring blood coagulation factor XIIIA regularly and continuously in patients with Crohn's disease.

Background: The aim of the present paper was to determine the mechanism by which the level of coagulation factor XIIIA declines during the active phase of Crohn's disease.

Methods: The relationship between the activity of Crohn's disease and factor XIIIA was observed in 31 patients with Crohn's disease prospectively. The relationship between factor XIIIA and thrombin-antithrombin III complex (TAT), factor XIIIA expressed on the surface of peripheral monocytes, was also evaluated.