A new algorithm designed for End-Stage Liver Disease (ESLD) accurately predicted death in 96% of patients and determined which patients would benefit from intensive care unit treatment. The algorithm combines pre-morbid liver function and Acute-on-Chronic Liver Failure grade to make predictions.
A new study shows that direct-acting antiviral therapy can improve the condition of patients with severe liver damage and hepatitis C, reducing their need for a liver transplant. The treatment improved the outlook for 35% of patients, allowing them to be removed from the transplant list or no longer require a transplant.
A genome-wide association study has identified two genes, PNPLA3 and SLC38A4, that increase the risk of developing severe alcoholic hepatitis in heavy drinkers. The study found that individuals with these genetic variants are more susceptible to developing this serious and life-threatening illness.
A new scoring system can accurately predict a person's risk of death from non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), the world's most prevalent liver disease. The study found that patients with severe NAFLD had a significantly higher risk of mortality, highlighting the importance of identifying patients at risk.
A new study found that patients with a prior history of hepatocellular carcinoma and treated with direct-acting antivirals for Hepatitis C have a higher-than-expected early recurrence rate of their liver cancer, with rates exceeding 40% in some subgroups. The recurrences may be due to a weakened immune system following DAA therapy.
Research shows people with type 2 diabetes are more susceptible to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), a condition characterized by a build-up of fat in liver cells. The study found that hospital admissions and deaths caused by liver disease are likely to rise if cases of type 2 diabetes continue to increase.
Researchers have found that CD163 can predict mortality in blood samples from patients with acute on chronic liver failure, a condition with a high four-week mortality rate of 20-30%. Measuring this biomarker may lead to improved diagnostics and treatment towards macrophages via CD163.
Researchers at Loyola University Health System have developed a new approach to treating hepatitis C, using mathematical models to predict when patients can safely stop taking direct-acting antiviral medication. This approach could lead to a 50% reduction in treatment cost and improved patient adherence.
Ajay Jain, a SLU hepatologist, is researching preventative strategies for parenteral nutrition-associated injuries. He aims to understand the interplay of bile acid regulated pathways and assess the role of the gut microbiome during PN.
Researchers have found a modified protein that can reverse liver fibrosis and cirrhosis in lab rats. The protein, TRAIL, was coated with a polymer to extend its half-life, allowing it to effectively kill activated hepatic stellate cells and reduce signs of fibrosis.
A recent study published in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition found that children with autism do not have a unique pattern of abnormal results on endoscopy or other tests for gastrointestinal disorders. The researchers analyzed the results of diagnostic tests in 61 children with autism being evaluated for GI sympt...
Researchers found that aerobic fitness protected against metabolic dysfunction in the liver, reducing inflammation and fatty deposits. Chronic alcohol ingestion did not cause significant changes in blood insulin or glucose levels, contrary to expectations.
A follow-up study found most vaccinated children maintained anti-hepatitis A antibodies until age 15-16 years, suggesting protection for at least 30 years. The findings support current US vaccine recommendations and do not require booster doses.
New research from Penn Medicine reveals that many transplant centers in the US reject organs for their sickest patients, increasing waitlist mortality. The study analyzed 23,000 organ offers to 13,255 patients and found significant variability in acceptance rates among centers.
Endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty is a minimally invasive procedure that reduces stomach size and alters physiology, resulting in significant weight loss. The study found a 54% reduction in excess body weight at one year, with improved patient satisfaction and delayed solid food emptying.
A recent US study found that minority and ethnic groups are being diagnosed with colorectal cancer at younger ages than non-Hispanic whites. The study reveals that these groups have twice the risk of developing the disease before age 50, with advanced stages at diagnosis.
A long-term surveillance study shows chromoendoscopy is more effective than random biopsy or white-light colonoscopy in detecting dysplasia in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases. Chromoendoscopy identified precancerous lesions in 27 out of 208 examinations, while white-light examination detected them in only 11.
Two studies found that recurrent acute and chronic pancreatitis in children has a high disease burden, with 42% rate of rehospitalizations and estimated annual healthcare costs of $40,000. The studies highlight the need for information and research to prevent suffering and reduce costs.
Researchers at University of Missouri-Columbia discovered that the gene Sprouty2, previously believed to suppress cancer growth, may actually promote metastasis in colorectal cancer. This finding has significant implications for understanding and treating the disease.
A study published in JNCI Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that virtual colonoscopy had higher detection rates than traditional methods like FIT and OC. The researchers concluded that combination of lower attendance and higher detection rate makes CTC a key factor for optimization of its role in population screening.
A new meta-analysis found that psychological therapies can reduce IBS symptoms for at least six months after treatment ends. The study analyzed 41 clinical trials involving over 2,200 patients, revealing no significant difference in effectiveness between different types of psychotherapy.
A large clinical trial found that a combination of antiviral medications can eradicate hepatitis C infection in over 90 percent of patients with advanced liver disease. The study showed significant improvements in liver function, even among patients with existing cirrhosis and liver failure.
Researchers have found a potential treatment strategy for glycogen storage disease Ia by inducing autophagy in liver cells, which reduces fat and glycogen levels. A drug called rapamycin stimulates autophagy and improves liver size and function in animal models.
A genetic variant has been found to increase the risk of fatty liver disease in obese children and adolescents, despite lower total and LDL cholesterol levels. The variant affects the TM6SF2 protein, which regulates fat metabolism in the liver.
Researchers have developed a novel HCV antigen test system, which significantly improves sensitivity and specificity over current tests. The new test can use urine specimens for one-step screening and diagnosing of HCV infections, making it more convenient and affordable globally.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that feeding at-risk infants gluten until two years of age increases the risk of developing celiac disease. The research suggests that early gluten intake plays a role in disease course, particularly in children with genetic risk factors for celiac disease.
Researchers at Hiroshima University have discovered that fragments of cancer DNA circulating in the bloodstream can predict the recurrence and spread of liver cancer. This non-invasive method, known as circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA), provides valuable clinical information about the patient's disease progression.
Premature birth can be lifesaving with TPN, but it also causes liver damage. Dr. Ajay Jain is studying ways to prevent TPN-related complications in newborns.
A nationwide study in Pediatrics found 159 children under 18 with Autoimmune Hepatitis in Canada, with fatigue, jaundice, and abdominal pain as common presenting symptoms. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent worsening symptoms, and the study provides evidence-based data for family physicians and specialists to refer patients earlier.
A study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology suggests that all relatives of individuals with colorectal cancer are at increased risk for this cancer, regardless of their age. The risk is highest among young first-degree relatives under 50 years old.
A large study of middle-aged Koreans reveals that both sedentary behavior and reduced physical activity contribute to the prevalence of NAFLD. The findings support increasing physical activity and reducing sitting time as crucial in reducing the risk of NAFLD.
A new study has found that detecting small fragments of tumor DNA in a patient's pre-surgery serum samples can predict early recurrence of hepatocellular carcinoma and guide treatment. This non-invasive method may lead to improved survival rates for liver cancer patients.
Patients with autoimmune hepatitis who present with cirrhosis at first diagnosis and those with SLA/LP antibodies have a higher risk of relapse, liver transplant, and reduced life expectancy. The presence of SLA/LP antibodies is linked to poor overall and liver transplant-free survival.
Researchers found that MACC1 expression is a key indicator of survival and recurrence risk in Klatskin carcinoma patients. Patients with low MACC1 levels have a good chance of benefiting from surgery, while those with high levels are at a higher risk of cancer recurrence.
A new study reveals liver fibrosis affects 5.6% of adults aged ?45, primarily those with diabetes or steatosis. The rising prevalence highlights the growing concern of liver health issues due to an aging population and increasing rates of diabetes and obesity.
A new study published in Journal of Hepatology found that women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) are at a higher risk of hepatobiliary cancer and immune-mediated diseases later in life. ICP affects nearly 0.4-1.5% of pregnancies and is characterized by itching, elevated serum bile acids, and/or liver enzymes.
A recent study published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that intra-abdominal fat cells may promote inflammation in IBD patients. The research isolated and cultured pre-intra-abdominal fat cells from healthy subjects and those with IBD, revealing significant differences in signaling mediators produced by...
Researchers have successfully created functional liver cells from human embryonic and genetic engineered stem cells. The new method enables unlimited production of liver cells with high accuracy, revolutionizing pharmaceutical drug discovery and potentially improving treatment outcomes.
A genetic mutation in the PLVAP gene has been identified as a cause of severe protein losing enteropathy in infants, leading to abdominal swelling, malnutrition and early death. The study's findings offer hope for targeted correction through gene therapy.
A new review article analyzes five interventional approaches to gallbladder disease, including laparoscopic cholecystectomy, NOTES, and endoscopic transmural drainage. The authors highlight the potential benefits of these minimally invasive procedures, which offer alternatives to traditional surgery and can improve patient outcomes.
The European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition recommends that children with inflammatory bowel disease should not be switched to biosimilar products without long-term studies. Post-marketing surveillance programs are also essential to confirm efficacy, safety, and immunogenicity of new biosimilars.
A large population-based study found that women with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) have a higher risk of hepatobiliary cancer, immune-mediated diseases, and cardiovascular disease compared to those without the condition. ICP is characterized by pruritus, elevated serum bile acids, and liver enzymes in late pregnancy.
A clinical trial confirms that pinaverium is an effective and safe option for treating irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), with a significantly higher percentage of patients reporting improved symptoms compared to the placebo group. The medication was also associated with common side effects, but no severe adverse effects were reported.
A nationwide observational cohort study found that spouses and first-degree relatives of celiac disease patients are at a higher risk of developing nonceliac autoimmune diseases. The most common conditions were systemic lupus erythematosus, type I diabetes mellitus, and sarcoidosis. Genetic, environmental, and ascertainment bias mechan...
The American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) has updated its guidance on testing, managing, and treating hepatitis C virus (HCV). The new recommendations focus on direct-acting antiviral drugs, which have shown high efficacy in curing HCV. With these updates, millions of Americans living with chronic HCV may now hav...
A study published in Cellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology found that modulating B lymphocyte function may help regulate T lymphocyte activity to treat immune-mediated disorders like IBD. Researchers discovered a pathway involving IL-10, IL-27, and regulatory T lymphocytes.
Research on gender in GI publishing landscape reveals growing proportion of female first authors, but senior authors still lag behind. The study found a significant association between the gender of the lead and senior author.
A daily sugar-sweetened beverage habit may increase the risk for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), researchers found in a study of over 2,600 adults. Consuming more than one sugar-sweetened beverage per day was associated with a higher prevalence of NAFLD.
The FDA has published a paper highlighting its scientific approaches and regulatory processes for approving promising hepatitis C drugs. The agency emphasizes flexibility in considering innovative trial designs without compromising efficacy standards.
A prospective study found that telbivudine prevented perinatal transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV) in pregnant women with high viral loads. The study showed a significant reduction in HBV transmission in infants whose mothers received telbivudine, with almost no positive tests after six months.
A risk prediction model has been developed to identify patients with hepatitis C who have the most urgent need for new anti-viral drugs. The model uses routine lab values and machine-learning methods to predict health outcomes, allowing doctors to target treatment to those with high risk of complications.
The American Gastroenterological Association recognizes Robert S.andler for his lifelong contributions to gastroenterology and AGA, while C. Richard Boland receives the William Beaumont Prize for his work on Lynch syndrome and colorectal cancer research. The Distinguished Educator Awards are given to Patrick S. Kamath and Charles Melbe...
The AGA Research Foundation has awarded over $10 million in research grants to 22 young investigators pursuing careers in gastroenterology and related fields. The recipients will support promising research projects that aim to advance understanding of digestive diseases and improve patient care.
A simple blood test can predict which chronic hepatitis C patients will respond to interferon-based therapy, according to a recent study. The researchers found that levels of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL) in the blood predicted treatment response.
The American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) highlights notable clinical practice data and basic science research presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2015. Notable abstracts include fecal microbiota transplantation donors, maximizing endoscopy utilization, and bile acid roles in obesity.
The American College of Physicians (ACP) has released best practice advice for cervical cancer screening, supported by ACOG and ASCP. The guidance aims to reduce overuse of screening in average-risk women without symptoms.
A two-week international diet swap study found that changing from a Westernized to an African high-fiber, low-fat diet reduced biomarkers of cancer risk in both African-American and rural South African volunteers. Increasing fiber intake and reducing animal fat and proteins may help lower colon cancer risk.
A study found that using a pocket-sized ultrasound device (PUD) with physical examination can improve diagnosis accuracy and reduce the number of tests needed. The PUD was found to be comparable in performance to standard ultrasonography, but improved the accuracy of physical examinations, resulting in a 37% reduction in further testing.
The RUBY-1 study evaluates ombitasvir/paritaprevir/ritonavir and dasabuvir in patients with stage 4 or 5 CKD and HCV GT1 infection, revealing a well-tolerated combination with rapid viral load suppression.
A recent study published in The International Liver Congress shows that alcohol use disorders are a stronger predictor of mortality than chronic hepatitis C virus infection, especially when severe comorbidities are present. AUDs were found to be associated with higher mortality risks across all hospital subgroups.