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Published in: Current Gastroenterology Reports 12/2023

11-11-2023 | Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Barrier Dysfunction in Eosinophilic Esophagitis

Authors: Emily C. McGowan, Roopesh Singh, David A. Katzka

Published in: Current Gastroenterology Reports | Issue 12/2023

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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Compelling evidence over the past decade supports the central role of epithelial barrier dysfunction in the pathophysiology of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE). The purpose of this review is to summarize the genetic, environmental, and immunologic factors driving epithelial barrier dysfunction, and how this impaired barrier can further promote the inflammatory response in EoE.

Recent Findings

Common environmental exposures, such as detergents, may have a direct impact on the esophageal epithelial barrier. In addition, the effects of IL-13 on barrier dysfunction may be reduced by 17β-estradiol, Vitamin D, and the short chain fatty acids butyrate and propionate, suggesting novel therapeutic targets.

Summary

There are many genetic, environmental, and immunologic factors that contribute to epithelial barrier dysfunction in EoE. This leads to further skewing of the immune response to a “Th2” phenotype, alterations in the esophageal microbiome, and penetration of relevant antigens into the esophageal mucosa, which are central to the pathophysiology of EoE.
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Metadata
Title
Barrier Dysfunction in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
Authors
Emily C. McGowan
Roopesh Singh
David A. Katzka
Publication date
11-11-2023
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Current Gastroenterology Reports / Issue 12/2023
Print ISSN: 1522-8037
Electronic ISSN: 1534-312X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11894-023-00904-6

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