We analysed mRNA levels for TLRs using quantitative PCR and distribution of TLRs in mucosa using immunohistochemistry. Results. We found increased mRNA expression of TLR4 (mean fold change 1.85 ± 0.31 versus 1.0 ± 0.20; p < 0.05), TLR5 (1.96 ± 0.36 versus 1.0 ± 0.20; p < 0.05) and TLR9 (2.00 ± 0.24 versus 1.0 ± 0.25; p < 0.01) but not of TLR2 in the small bowel mucosa from patients with IBS compared to the controls. The gene discussed is TLR9; the disease is irritable bowel syndrome.