Overexpression of miR-122 Impairs Intestinal Barrier Function and Aggravates Acute Pancreatitis by Downregulating Occludin Expression.

Acute pancreatitis (AP) causes intestinal barrier damage, resulting in systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) or multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), which are important factors affecting AP severity and mortality. Here, we studied the mechanism of miR-122 in regulating intestinal barrier function in AP. AP rat model was constructed via intraperitoneal injection of ketamine, and primary intestinal epithelial cells were isolated from rats for in vitro studies.

Endoscopic nasobiliary drainage with sphincterotomy in acute obstructive cholangitis: a prospective randomized controlled trial.

Objective: We aimed to determine the efficacy and safety of endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) with or without endoscopic sphincterotomy (EST) for temporary biliary decompression in patients with acute obstructive cholangitis.

Methods: In total, 72 patients with acute obstructive cholangitis were prospectively randomized to undergo emergency ENBD with EST (EST group, n = 36) or without EST (non-EST group, n = 36). The clinical outcomes and complications between the two groups were compared.

Comparison between botulinum injection and removable covered self-expanding metal stents for the treatment of achalasia.

Background: Intrasphincteric injection of botulinum toxin (BTX) and removable self-expanding metal stents (SEMS) have both been used for the treatment of achalasia.

Aim: To compare the effectiveness and long-term outcome of SEMS placement and BTX injection in patients with achalasia.

Methods: A total of 110 patients with newly diagnosed achalasia were enrolled in the study between July 2003 and December 2009.