Advances in our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis

Abstract

Abstract Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a multifactorial and complex disease. Our knowledge of the cellular and genetic basis of NEC have expanded considerably as new molecular mechanisms have been identified. This article will focus on the current understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of NEC with a focus on the inflammatory, immune, infectious, and genetic mechanisms that drive disease development.

Keywords

• Necrotizing enterocolitis
• Immature immune system
• Neonatal inflammation
• Epigenetic modification
• Regulatory RNAs
• Single nucleotide polymorphisms