Normally, the expression of TLR4 in epithelial cells gradually decreases after birth, but in murine models of NEC, TLR4 remains highly expressed.7 This high level of TLR4 increases apoptosis and autophagy and reduces proliferation and migration in both enterocytes and intestinal stem cells.8 Moreover, TLR4 is an activator of necroptosis. The gene discussed is TLR4; the disease is necrotizing enterocolitis.