In this context, it is pertinent to note that a number of markers involved in proteolysis were pancreatic enzymes such as CELA2A, CELA3A, CELA3B and CTRC, which were all found to be reduced in the stools of NEC infants, an observation consistent with the general immaturity of the gut in premature infants who are most susceptible to developing NEC, which may also include limited pancreatic functions [65]. This evidence concerns the gene CELA3A and necrotizing enterocolitis.