Tofacitinib Affects M1-like and M2-like Polarization and Tissue Factor Expression in Macrophages of Healthy Donors and IBD Patients.

Background: Tofacitinib, as inhibitor of Janus kinases (JAK), interrupts the transmission of numerous pro-inflammatory cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). Therefore, tofacitinib provides a potent option to treat ulcerative colitis (UC). Besides the anti-inflammatory potential, inhibition of widespread JAKs carries the risk of side effects.

Serotonin reuptake transporter deficiency promotes liver steatosis and impairs intestinal barrier function in obese mice fed a Western-style diet.

Background: Intestinal barrier dysfunctions have been associated with liver steatosis and metabolic diseases. Besides nutritional factors, like a Western-style diet (WSD), serotonin has been linked with leaky gut. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the role of serotonin in the pathogenesis of intestinal barrier dysfunctions and liver steatosis in mice fed high-fat and high-sugar diets.

Surface Design Options in Polymer- and Lipid-Based siRNA Nanoparticles Using Antibodies.

The mechanism of RNA interference (RNAi) could represent a breakthrough in the therapy of all diseases that arise from a gene defect or require the inhibition of a specific gene expression. In particular, small interfering RNA (siRNA) offers an attractive opportunity to achieve a new milestone in the therapy of human diseases. The limitations of siRNA, such as poor stability, inefficient cell uptake, and undesired immune activation, as well as the inability to specifically reach the target tissue in the body, can be overcome by further developments in the field of nanoparticulate drug delivery.

The Memory T Cell "Communication Web" in Context with Gastrointestinal Disorders-How Memory T Cells Affect Their Surroundings and How They Are Influenced by It.

Gut-related diseases like ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease, or colorectal cancer affect millions of people worldwide. It is an ongoing process finding causes leading to the development and manifestation of those disorders. This is highly relevant since understanding molecular processes and signalling pathways offers new opportunities in finding novel ways to interfere with and apply new pharmaceuticals.