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Discovery of new signaling intermediates provides clues to novel therapies in pancreatitis

Researchers have discovered a new signaling intermediate, leukotriene B4, which is synthesized and released by pancreatic acinar cells. This finding provides a potential target for the development of novel therapies for pancreatitis, a common disorder that complicates many ailments.

SourceAmerican Gastroenterological Association·JournalCellular and Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology·DateJan 15, 2015

Smoking, alcohol, gene variant interact to increase risk of chronic pancreatitis

A 12-year study found that genetic variants, combined with lifestyle factors like smoking and drinking, can lead to chronic pancreatitis. Researchers identified a specific gene variant that may fail to protect pancreatic cells from injury, increasing the risk of inflammation and scarring.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences·JournalClinical and Translational Gastroenterology·DateJan 8, 2015

Late-breaking observational data show patients with type 2 diabetes taking JANUVIA (sitagliptin) and metformin initiated insulin therapy at a slower rate compared to patients taking a sulfonylurea and metformin

A retrospective cohort study found patients taking JANUVIA and metformin initiated insulin therapy at a slower rate than those taking a sulfonylurea and metformin. The study suggests that real-world data may provide insight into the effects of different oral treatment regimens on the initiation of insulin use.

New analysis shows that patients with Type 2 diabetes and mild renal impairment had similar improvement in blood sugar control and experienced less hypoglycemia with JANUVIA (sitagliptin) compared to sulfonylurea

A post-hoc analysis found that patients with Type 2 diabetes and mild renal impairment treated with JANUVIA achieved similar blood sugar reductions as those treated with sulfonylureas, with significantly fewer hypoglycemia events. Patients taking JANUVIA also experienced weight loss, whereas those on sulfonylureas gained weight.

Cortisone can increase risk of acute pancreatitis

A new study from Karolinska Institutet reveals that cortisone increases the risk of acute pancreatitis. Patients treated with cortisone are recommended to avoid alcohol and smoking to minimize the risk. The study found a 70% higher risk of developing acute pancreatitis among those taking cortisone tablet form.

SourceKarolinska Institutet·JournalJAMA Internal Medicine·DateFeb 25, 2013

Molecular master switch for pancreatic cancer identified, potential predictor of treatment outcome

A team from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine has identified a molecular master switch for pancreatic cancer, which could serve as a potential predictor of treatment outcome. The researchers found that Prrx1 and Sox9 regulate the emergence of an intermediate cell type that can give rise to cancer.

SourceUniversity of Pennsylvania School of Medicine·JournalGenes & Development·DateFeb 12, 2013

Genetic link between pancreatitis and alcohol consumption, says Pitt team

Researchers identified a genetic variant on chromosome X that predicts high-risk men who drink heavily are at risk for developing chronic pancreatitis. The discovery enables doctors to identify patients with early signs of pancreatitis or acute attacks, allowing them to take preventative action and give the pancreas a chance to heal.

Immune system protein could explain pancreatitis

A new study published in Gastroenterology suggests that the immune system protein NFATc3 plays a significant role in the development of acute pancreatitis. The researchers found links between NFAT and trypsinogen activation, neutrophil recruitment, and tissue damage in mice.

SourceLund University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateAug 31, 2012

Statin therapy associated with lower risk of pancreatitis

A meta-analysis of 16 statin trials and 7 fibrate trials found that statin therapy was associated with a 21% lower risk of pancreatitis. In contrast, fibrates showed no significant risk reduction. Lifestyle modifications remain important for improving lipid profiles in patients with hypertriglyceridemia.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA·DateAug 21, 2012

Diet rich in vegetables may help stave off acute pancreatitis

A diet high in vegetables may help prevent acute pancreatitis by reducing oxidative stress. The study found that individuals who consumed the most vegetables daily were 44% less likely to develop the condition than those who ate the least. This protective effect was strongest among heavy drinkers and overweight individuals.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalGut·DateJun 27, 2012

New stage in fighting pancreatic cancer

Researchers at Cardiff University have secured a £2M MRC Programme Grant to investigate the potential of a calcium-like molecule in protecting against enzymes that trigger pancreatitis. The team aims to better understand stellate cells, which may be the link between chronic pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy June issue study highlights

A study published in GIE: Gastrointestinal Endoscopy examined polyp detection rates at screening colonoscopy and identified factors contributing to variability. Procedure time was found to be significantly associated with polyp detection rates across all models, indicating the need for quality standards for colonoscopy performance.

SourceAmerican Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJun 29, 2009

Does hypertriglyceridemia aggravate the episodes of severe acute pancreatitis?

A study found that hypertriglyceridemia is independently associated with the severity of acute pancreatitis and leads to systemic complications. High triglyceride levels were linked to increased incidence of admission hypocalcemia, renal failure, shock, infection, and mortality in patients with severe acute pancreatitis.

SourceWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·JournalWorld Journal of Gastroenterology·DateOct 13, 2008

Cellular self-eating promotes pancreatitis

Researchers found that autophagy promotes premature activation of trypsinogen, a digestive enzyme that can damage pancreatic cells. In rodents with pancreatitis, high levels of autophagy were observed, and blocking the process reduced symptoms. The study reveals autophagy as a potential trigger for pancreatitis in mice.

SourceRockefeller University Press·JournalJournal of Cell Biology·DateJun 30, 2008

Early surgical treatment contributes to better outcomes in gallstone pancreatitis cases

A study published in the Journal of the American College of Surgeons found that early cholecystectomy significantly reduces hospital stays in patients with mild to moderate gallstone pancreatitis. The procedure can benefit both individual patients and hospitals by reducing hospital time by three or four days.

SourceWeber Shandwick Worldwide·JournalJournal of the American College of Surgeons·DateDec 18, 2007

JCI table of contents: May 24, 2007

A study by Arlette Darfeuille-Michaud and colleagues reveals that CEACAM6 expression promotes adherent-invasive E. coli's colonization in intestinal epithelial cells of patients with Crohn's disease, indicating a potential diagnostic marker for the condition. Meanwhile, another study by Andrea Hevener and colleagues shows that macropha...

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateMay 24, 2007

Protein is key for digestive function of the pancreas

The study reveals that VAMP8 is essential for the normal functioning of pancreatic acinar cells, which produce digestive enzymes. Mice lacking VAMP8 showed reduced levels of digestive enzymes and partial resistance to pancreatitis, suggesting a potential link between VAMP8 and this condition.

SourceCell Press·JournalDevelopmental Cell·DateSep 13, 2004

Minimally invasive procedure offers long-term pain relief for patients with pancreatitis

A new minimally invasive procedure called endoscopic pancreatic sphincterotomy (EPS) has shown promise in providing long-term pain relief for patients with chronic pancreatitis. According to a recent study by Johns Hopkins physicians, 62% of patients reported significant improvement in their pain levels after undergoing the procedure.

SourceJohns Hopkins Medicine·JournalGastrointestinal Endoscopy·DateJul 24, 2000