Work

Immunohistochemical expression of NF-κB signaling pathway components in the septum of type I intestinal atresia

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background The aim of the study was to characterize the expression of nuclear factor (NF)- κ B signaling pathway molecules in the septal mucosa of type I intestinal atresia (IA) and to explore their potential association with impaired intestinal recanalization during embryonic development. Methods Septa and adjacent proximal intestinal wall tissue were obtained from eight patients with type I IA. Serial sections were prepared for immunohistochemistry staining of transforming growth factor-β-activated kinase 1 (TAK1), I kappa B kinase-alpha/beta (IKK-α/β), p65 NF- κ B, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Mean optical density was quantified using Image-Pro Plus software, and differences between groups were statistically analyzed. Results TAK1, IKK-α/β, and p65 NF- κ B showed weak cytoplasmic immunoreactivity in the glandular epithelial cells of the control intestinal mucosa. In contrast, markedly increased cytoplasmic staining for TAK1, IKK-α/β, and p65 NF- κ B proteins was observed in the mucosal glands of septa. The expression of TNF-α and IL-6, typical downstream pro-inflammatory cytokines of the NF- κ B signaling pathway, demonstrated markedly increased cytoplasmic staining. A semiquantitative analysis confirmed a significantly higher expression of TAK1, IKK-α/β, p65 NF- κ B, TNF-α, and IL-6 in septa than in the normal intestinal wall. Conclusion The aberrant expression of the NF- κ B signaling pathway and activation of the inflammatory response during embryonic intestinal recanalization may be associated with the formation and progression of septa.

Source: Frontiers in Pediatrics

DOI: 10.3389/fped.2026.1978002