Compared to breastfed control, we found increased levels of IL-6 in the brain [NEC group 3.3 pg/mg (3–3.4 pg/mg); control group (1.96 pg/mg ± 0.8 pg/mg); p = 0.004; Fig. 5c] and ileum of NEC pups [NEC group 11.4 pg/mg (8.8–12.4 pg/mg); control group (4.8 pg/mg ± 3.1 pg/mg); p = 0.0003; Fig. 5d]. This evidence concerns the gene IL6 and necrotizing enterocolitis.