Ulcerative Colitis Permeability

Study aim: To investigate whether the values of zonulin and lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP) as biomarkers of intestinal permeability are related to the degree of liver steatosis, steatohepatitis and fibrosis in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) and metabolic-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Subjects and methods: Participants with UC will be included, except for those whose inflammation affects only the rectum. During the clinical and biochemical remission of UC, a physical examination, taking of anamnestic data, blood tests, and abdominal ultrasound with measurement of parameters of liver steatosis, steatohepatitis, and fibrosis (controlled attenuation parameter, FibroScan-AST score, liver stiffness measure) will be performed via transient elastography. Blood samples will be taken to determine zonulin and LBP, and statistical data will be processed. Expected contribution to the field: Indicate the potential of zonulin and LBP as markers for advanced liver fibrosis in patients with MASLD and UC.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-70 years. * Established diagnosis of ulcerative colitis (UC) for at least 6 months according to current European Crohn's and Colitis Organisation (ECCO) guidelines. * Clinical remission of UC defined as a partial Mayo score \