Selective influence of Tcf-1 and Tcf-4 mediated WNT signaling on intestinal innate immunity of ileal Crohn's disease

Aims: Ileal Crohn's disease (CD) is characterized by diminished antibacterial activity and a specific decrease of small intestinal Paneth cell α-defensins HD5 and 6. We previously reported a causal link between this decrease and the Wnt pathway transcription factor Tcf-4. Wnt signaling has an important function in intestinal epithelium renewal, regulating stem cell maintenance and their transition to Paneth-cells. To investigate the pathways influence in the disease, we aimed to assess expression of WNT pathway and target genes. Methods: RNA was isolated from ileal biopsies of healthy individuals (n=14) and CD p…