Evaluation of Bcl2/BAX genes expression ratio as a marker of inflammatory bowel disease

Apoptosis is an essential physiological process to maintain immune homeostasis. T-cell incorrect apoptosis appears to be involved in chronic inflammatory diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The aim of this study was to evaluate the Bcl2/BAX genes expression ratio in patients with IBD (Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) compared to healthy persons. This case-control study was conducted on 49 patients with IBD and 20 healthy subjects. Blood samples were collected from the patients and healthy subjects after receiving complete information and obtaining consent. Then, white blood cells were isolated by the Salting Out technique. After RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, the Bcl2/BAX expression level was quantitatively measured by the real-time PCR method in the patients and healthy subjects. The results showed that the Bcl2/BAX genes expression ratio in peripheral blood T-cells was not significantly different in patients with IBD compared to the healthy subjects (P=0.06). It seems that change is not evident in Bcl2/BAX genes expression ratio in peripheral blood T-cells in the patients with IBD.