Ghrelin inhibits IKKβ/NF-κB activation and reduces pro-inflammatory cytokine production in pancreatic acinar AR42J cells treated with cerulein.

Background: Previous studies have provided conflicting results regarding whether the serum ghrelin concentration can reflect the severity of acute pancreatitis (AP). The present study examined the correlation between the serum ghrelin concentration and AP severity in animal models and investigated whether altered ghrelin expression in pancreatic acinar cells influences IKKβ/NF-κB signaling and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

Methods: Mild or severe AP was induced in rats by intraperitoneal injection of cerulein or retrograde cholangiopancreatic duct injection of sodium taurocholate, respectively.