Combination of Helicobacter pylori strain and tumor necrosis factor-alpha polymorphism of the host increases the risk of peptic ulcer disease in children.

Background: Helicobacter pylori infection is probably acquired in childhood and causes a vigorous immune response. It is unclear why only a subgroup of infected children develops peptic ulcer disease. We have previously reported that iceA1 strains tend to be associated with duodenal disease in children.

Hepatic production of insulin-like growth factors in normal and diseased liver.

Background/aims: IGF-I levels are reduced in cirrhotic patients. However, it is not known whether this decreased level is the result of reduced hepatic production or modified bioavailability secondary to decreased binding proteins. We determined the hepatic production of IGF-I and IGF-II and their receptors in normal and diseased liver.

Relative expression and localization of the insulin-like growth factor system components in the fetal, child and adult intestine.

Background: The insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) are important in the development and maintenance of the gastrointestinal tract.

Objectives: To compare the expression of IGFs and their receptors in the stomach and duodenum of the fetus, the child and the adult. To identify the cells mainly responsible for the production of the members of the IGF system.