Spp24 is associated with endocytic signalling, lipid metabolism, and discrimination of tissue integrity for 'leaky-gut' in inflammatory bowel disease.

Epithelial barrier injury allows contaminants to cross-over into the blood stream and trigger an inflammatory response, contributing to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Currently there is no single test that can reliably diagnose intestinal mucosal barrier function or measure impaired epithelial cell integrity associated with increasing permeability. Here, we assess the association between serum proteins and small intestinal permeability as detected by confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE); in particular the known IBD marker-secreted phosphoprotein 24 (SPP24) and its binding partners; and use developed monoclonal antibodies to assess the role of SPP24 in mucosal healing.

Black LGB Identities and Perceptions of Same-Sex Marriage.

The 2015 SCOTUS ruling legalizing same-sex marriage was hailed as a universal victory for the lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) community, but the pervasive support mobilized to achieve this goal may mask important dissension and inequality within the community. Specifically, how race may shape or perpetuate inequalities in the LGB community through same-sex marriage largely has been absent from the discussion. Focusing on the perceived impact of same-sex marriage in respondents' lives, I investigate the relationship between Black LGBs' perception of same-sex marriage legalization and their intersectional identities and community membership.