| Abstract |
The intestinal epithelial cells, connected by the tight junctional proteins, forms the major physical gut barrier that separates the body proper from the intestinal contents. Leaky gut, also known as intestinal hyperpermeability, is a phenomenon that occurred when the intestinal barrier integrity loss and subsequently allowing the luminal substances to enter the bloodstream. The alteration of gut permeability has been closely linked in the pathogenesis of several diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), intestinal cancers, metabolic, cardiovascular, autoimmune, and neurophysiological diseases. Transepithelial electrical resistance (TER) is a widely used quantitative technique to measure the changes of tight junction-mediated barrier function in intestinal epithelial monolayers. TER values could reflect intestinal physical barriers changes when co-culture the cells with specific nutrients, microbial products, drugs, or chemicals. Multiple lines of evidence have demonstrated that the tight junction openings and closings are highly dynamic. However, several limitations exist in the current technique for TER measurement. To date, it has not been possible to measure the real-time TER changes, especially when the cells cultured in specific atmospheric conditions. It is also challenging to collect big data when using classic TER measurement methods. In the current project, the real-time monitoring device will be developed and bring unprecedented insights into the field of study interactions between epithelial barrier function and modulating factors. |
