DNA fragmentation is a feature of cystic fibrosis epithelial cells: a disease with inappropriate apoptosis?

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a single-gene disease caused by mutations in the CFTR gene, which result in disrupted chloride secretions with inspissated mucous secretions by exocrine glands. Nick-end labelling was used to assess DNA fragmentation in 14 CF and 24 control duodenal samples, and in two CF and two control lung tissues. In CF small intestine median 46% (range: 30-82) villus enterocytes show DNA fragmentation (vs.

Definition of the initial immunologic modifications upon in vitro gliadin challenge in the small intestine of celiac patients.

Background & Aims: Mucosal cell-mediated immune response is considered the central event in the pathogenesis of celiac disease. In cultured intestinal explants from celiacs in remission, we have characterized the early stages of gliadin-induced immune activation.

Methods: Intestinal biopsy specimens (15 treated celiacs and 13 controls) were cultured with gliadin or maize prolamine digests for 24 hours as well as for 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, and 12 hours in some subjects.