Cytokines, Chemokine Receptors, and Homing Molecule Distribution in the Rectum and Stomach of Pediatric Patients with Ulcerative Colitis

Abstract

The authors conclude that gastritis is common in pediatric UC. The presence of CCR3+ lymphocytes, IL-4 transcript expression, without IL-12 p40 production in the stomach and in the rectum suggests a Th2 immune response. The presence of CCR3+, CD62L- activated Th2 cells may suggest that these gastric cells are recruited from colorectal primary lesions.