In terms of differentiating between stages of NEC, CCL20, either used by itself or as a panel, demonstrated an ideal diagnostic profile, while IL-6 was more suited for monitoring disease progression CCL20 is predominantly expressed in intestinal epithelium against an inflammatory response, and the levels of CCL20 expressed in intestinal epithelium and may have utility to differentiate between stages of NEC (33). The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is necrotizing enterocolitis.