4.7. Histopathological Scoring

The histopathological changes in the large intestines were quantitatively assessed in colonic ex vivo biopsies that were immediately fixed in 5 % formalin and embedded in paraffin. Therefore, a standardized histopathological scoring system was used as described elsewhere [24]. In brief, score 1: minimal inflammatory cell infiltrates in the mucosa with intact epithelium. Score 2: mild inflammatory cell infiltrates in the mucosa and submucosa with mild hyperplasia and mild goblet cell loss. Score 3: moderate inflammatory cell infiltrates in the mucosa with moderate goblet cell loss. Score 4: marked inflammatory cell infiltration into in the mucosa and submucosa with marked goblet cell loss, multiple crypt abscesses and crypt loss.