Fig. 4.

Effects of PGE2 on mucus production and barrier protection. In healthy intestine, the mucus layer prevents microbes/microbial products from making contact with the epithelial barrier. With DSS injury, the mucus is depleted and the epithelial barrier is damaged, allowing microbes/microbial products access to the barrier. Escherichia coli incubation following DSS treatment yields increased E. coli in the intestine and increased bacterial contact with the epithelial cells. PGE2 rescues loss of the mucus layer due to DSS injury, preventing E. coli from reaching the epithelial barrier.