Endoscopic Injections of Botulinum Toxin Type A in the Piglet Esophagus Is Safe and Feasible but Did Not Result in any Significant Structural Changes 3 Days after Injection.

Introduction:  Treatment for long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) aims at achieving primary anastomosis with minimal tension. Previous studies have shown that intramural injections with botulinum toxin type-A (BTX-A) from the adventitial side can increase the elongation of the piglet and rat esophagus before bursting, and that this effect is dose and time dependent. Our aim was to determine if endoscopic injections would be feasible, safe, and with an effect on the mechanical properties of the esophagus.

AMPK signaling linked to the schizophrenia-associated 1q21.1 deletion is required for neuronal and sleep maintenance.

The human 1q21.1 deletion of ten genes is associated with increased risk of schizophrenia. This deletion involves the β-subunit of the AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) complex, a key energy sensor in the cell.

The Effect of Intramural Botulinum Toxin Injections on the Elongation of the Piglet Oesophagus Is Time Dependent.

 One in 4,000 infants is born with oesophageal atresia. Approximately 15% of these have a long gap oesophageal atresia, where primary anastomosis is difficult or impossible. Previous studies have shown an effect of intramural botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A) injections on the elongation and max load of the esophagus 1 hour after injection.