Expression of protease-activated receptor-2 (PAR-2) in Barrett's esophagus.

Background: Protease-activated receptor-2 mediates a variety of gastrointestinal functional processes, including the ability to induce tissue regeneration and cell proliferation. The metaplastic process resulting in Barrett's esophagus is considered as a regenerative answer to mixed duodenogastric reflux. In our present preliminary study we hypothetized that PAR-2 may have a role in the metaplastic-dysplastic changes in the columnar lined esophagus. Materials and methods: Mucosal biopsy samples were taken during upper gastrointestinal endoscopy from 57 patients with endoscopically suspected esophageal metaplasia…