Comparison of expression levels of TLR2 and TLR4 in the development of necrotizing enterocolitis in premature babies

Abstract

In preterm infants, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. Although significant advances have been made in the prevention and treatment of diseases so far, there has not been much change in the rate of mortality and morbidity associated with NEC. Although the factors affecting the development of necrotizing enterocolitis are not yet known precisely, prematurity is thought to be the most important risk factor for the development of NEC. This study, it was aimed to determine TLR2 and TLR4 expression levels in preterm neonates. A total of 50 preterm infants (patient: 40, control: 10) were included in the study. TLR2 and TLR4 expression levels were analysed by the RT-qPCR method. While there was no difference in infants’ birth weight (g), gestational age (weeks), mother’s age (years), father's age (years), HGB (g/dl) and WBC (109/L), RBC (1012/L) was found to be significantly higher in the group with NEC ((p<0.05). When TLR2 and TLR4 relative gene expression levels of neonates were evaluated (log2), it was determined that there was a significant difference between the two groups (below 1500 q, p<0.001). TLR4 relative expression (2^-ddCt, above 1500 q) was higher in the NEC group than in the healthy group, while TLR2 relative expression (2^-ddCt, above 1500 q) was higher in the healthy group. Determination of TLR4 gene expression in venous blood cells in premature infants with a body weight of less than 1500g in the first days of life can be used as a predictor of the subsequent development of NEC.