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Extraoral bitter taste receptors offer intriguing potential for modulating metabolism and the gut-brain axis through dietary interventions. Our understanding of these receptors is limited, and data on their effects on ageing are scarce. The complexity conveyed by their high diversity, low expression levels and species-dependent variability challenges our comprehension. We used real-time PCR to examine the relative abundance of multiple TAS2R across different segments of gastrointestinal mucosa in four human cohorts and related them to enteroendocrine secretions at the colon site. TAS2R14 exhibited the highest expression levels in all analyzed tissues. In contrast, TAS2R39, -38 and -42 consistently exhibited lower expression levels. Ageing was found to upregulate TAS2R4, -5, -13, -20 and GLP-1 mRNA in the descending colon. Stimulating TAS2R14 in Hutu-80 cells induced GLP-1 secretion, while stimulating TAS2R5 modulated GLP-1 and PYY secretion. Given the modifications TAS2R agonists may undergo along the GIT, as well as the distinctive expression patterns and possible functional roles of TAS2R receptors along the intestinal tract, our findings suggest the viability of a targeted strategy aimed at enhancing specific functions to improve health outcomes. This study offers valuable insights into the intricate interplay between bitter taste receptors, gut physiology and potential dietary interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Areas of the body accessible to gastric secretions, such as the stomach and duodenum, are most commonly damaged by circumscribed lesions of the upper gastrointestinal tract mucosa. Peptic ulcer disease is the term for this illness (PUD). About 80% of peptic ulcers are duodenal ulcers, with stomach ulcers accounting for the remaining 20%. Duodenal ulcers are linked to the two primary results about Helicobacter pylori infection and COX inhibitor users. Additional causes might include drinking, smoking, stress, and coffee consumption. The indications and symptoms of a duodenal ulcer depend on the patient's age and the lesion's location. For duodenal ulcers, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are the usual course of treatment. This comprehensive study included an in-depth literature search in the literature and methods section using electronic databases such as PubMed, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. The search method included publications published from the inception of the relevant database to the present. Inclusion criteria included studies investigating different treatment options for duodenal ulcer disease, including traditional pharmacotherapy and naturopathic treatments. Data mining includes information on treatment techniques, treatment outcomes, and possible synergies between conventional and herbal treatments. In addition, this review critically examines the available information on the effectiveness, safety, and possible side effects of different treatments. The inclusion of conventional and herbal treatments is intended to provide a comprehensive overview of the many treatment options available for duodenal ulcer disease. A more comprehensive and personalized treatment plan can be achieved by incorporating dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and, if necessary, herbal therapies to complement other treatments normally. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The effect of tumor budding (TB) on the prognosis of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) after endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) remains unclear. We evaluated the long-term outcomes of patients with superficial ESCC after ESD and the risk factors of TB for the long-term prognosis. Methods: We conducted a retrospective study in a Chinese hospital. All patients with ESCC treated by ESD and reported TB were included consecutively. Comparative analyses were conducted in three parts: specimen analysis, follow-up analyses of unmatched patients, and propensity score-matched (PSM) patients. Cox proportional hazard regression models were constructed to identify risk factors for overall survival and recurrence-free survival (RFS). Results: A total of 437 patients were enrolled [154 TB and 283 no tumor budding (NTB)], and 258 patients (52 TB and 206 NTB) were included in the follow-up analysis. Results showed that the invasion depth, differentiation type, and positive vascular invasion (all p < 0.001) of the TB group were significantly different from the NTB group. The all-cause mortality and the median RFS time between the two groups were comparable. RFS rate at 5 years were 84.6% and 80.6%, respectively (p = 0.43). Cox analyses identified that having other cancers but not TB, as a risk factor independently associated with overall survival and RFS after ESD. Conclusion: TB tends to be associated with invasion depth, differentiation type, and positive vascular invasion. However, it might not affect the long-term outcomes of patients with superficial ESCC after ESD when other high-risk factors are negative. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Rare disease Background: Angioedema is characterized by localized self-limiting edema of the deep dermis, subcutaneous, and submucosal tissues. Acute episodes often involve the skin of the face, lips, tongue, limbs, and genitals, as well as internal areas of the body and respiratory and gastrointestinal mucosa, which could be life-threatening. Histamine and bradykinin are the most recognized vasoactive mediators in the pathophysiology of angioedema. Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a fibrinolytic that is commonly used for the treatment of cerebrovascular accidents. Angioedema is a rare adverse effect of tPA, with an estimated incidence of 0.02% in patients with myocardial infarction or pulmonary embolism and 0.2% to 5.1% in patients with stroke. We report a unique case of tPA-associated angioedema with 24-h management. Case Report: A 79-year-old male patient presented to the Emergency Department with acute onset right-sided weakness, right-sided facial droop, and speech difficulties. Following the initial evaluation, it was determined that he was a candidate for receiving tPA therapy. On arrival at the Intensive Care Unit, he was noted to have right upper and then lower lip swelling. The patient was asymptomatic and did not show any signs concerning airway compromise. Treatment included systemic corticosteroids and antihistamines. The progression of the angioedema was further described with sequential images. The angioedema was completely resolved with treatment. Conclusions: Angioedema is a rare but potentially life-threatening adverse effect of tPA. Although it generally has a mild self-limiting course, it can cause life-threatening airway compromise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peptic ulcers, recognized for their erosive impact on the gastrointestinal mucosa, present a considerable challenge in gastroenterology. Epidemiological insights underscore the global prevalence of peptic ulcers, affecting 5–10+% of individuals, with a yearly incidence of 0.3 to 1.9 cases per thousand. Recent decades have witnessed a decline in complications, attributed to improved diagnostics and therapeutic advancements. The review deepens into H. pylori -associated and NSAID-induced ulcers, emphasizing their distinct prevalence in developing and industrialized nations, respectively. Despite advancements, managing peptic ulcers remains challenging, notably in H. pylori -infected individuals facing recurrence and the rise of antibiotic resistance. The pathophysiology unravels the delicate balance between protective and destructive factors, including the intricate molecular mechanisms involving inflammatory mediators such as TNF-α, ILs, and prostaglandins. Genetic and ethnic factors, rare contributors, and recent molecular insights further enhance our understanding of peptic ulcer development. Diagnostic approaches are pivotal, with upper gastrointestinal endoscopy standing as the gold standard. Current treatment strategies focus on H. pylori eradication, NSAID discontinuation, and proton pump inhibitors. Surgical options become imperative for refractory cases, emphasizing a comprehensive approach. Advances include tailored H. pylori regimens, the emergence of vonoprazan, and ongoing vaccine development. Challenges persist, primarily in antibiotic resistance, side effects of acid suppressants, and translating natural compounds into standardized therapies. Promising avenues include the potential H. pylori vaccine and the exploration of natural compounds, with monoterpenes showing therapeutic promise. This review serves as a compass, guiding healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers through the intricate landscape of peptic ulcer management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diet can be considered as one of the pivotal factors in regulating gastrointestinal health, and polyphenols widely distributed in human daily diet. The polyphenols and their metabolites playing a series of beneficial effects in human gastrointestinal tract that can regulate of the gut microbiota, increase intestinal barrier function, repair gastrointestinal mucosa, reduce oxidative stress, inhibit the secretion of inflammatory factors and regulating immune function, and their absorption and biotransformation mainly depend on the activity of intestinal microflora. However, little is known about the two-way interaction between polyphenols and intestinal microbiota. The objective of this review is to highlight the structure optimization and effect of flavonoids on intestinal flora, and discusses the mechanisms of dietary flavonoids regulating intestinal flora. The multiple effects of single molecule of flavonoids, and inter-dependence between the gut microbiota and polyphenol metabolites. Moreover, the protective effects of polyphenols on intestinal barrier function, and effects of interaction between plant polyphenols and macromolecules on gastrointestinal health. This review provided valuable insight that may be useful for better understanding the mechanism of the gastrointestinal health effects of polyphenols, and provide a scientific basis for their application as functional food. HIGHLIGHTS: Possible mechanism of flavonoids regulating intestinal flora. Flavonoids optimize the structure and composition of gut microbiota. Polyphenol improve intestinal barrier function. Interaction between polyphenols and macromolecules improves gastrointestinal health The two-way interaction between flavonoids and intestinal microflora to improve bioavailability [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reflux esophagitis (RE) is a disease in which inflammation of the esophageal mucosa owing to the reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus results in cytokine damage. Britannilactone 1-O-acetate (Brt) has anti-inflammatory effects, significantly inhibiting the activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome, leading to a decrease in inflammatory factors including IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF-α. However, the mechanism underlying its protective effect against RE-induced esophageal injury remains unclear. In the present study, we investigated the protective mechanism of TRIM31 against NLRP3 ubiquitination-induced RE both in vivo and in vitro. Methods: A model of RE was established in vivo in rats by the method of "4.2 mm pyloric clamp + 2/3 fundoplication". In vitro, the mod was constructed by using HET-1A (esophageal epithelial cells) and exposing the cells to acid, bile salts, and acidic bile salts. The 3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) assay was used to screen the concentration of administered drugs, and the viability of HET-1A cells in each group. HE staining was used to assess the degree of pathological damage in esophageal tissues. Toluidine blue staining was used to detect whether the protective function of the esophageal epithelial barrier was damaged and restored. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the levels of IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF-α factors in serum. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the expression level of NLRP3 in esophageal tissues. The molecular docking and Co-immunoprecipitation assay (Co-IP assay) were used to detect the TRIM31 interacts with NLRP3. Western blotting detected the Claudin-4, Claudin-5, The G-protein-coupled receptor calcium-sensitive receptor (CaSR), NLRP3, TRIM31, ASC, C-Caspase1, and Caspase1 protein expression levels. Results: Brt could alleviate RE inflammatory responses by modulating serum levels of IL-1 β, IL-6, and TNF-α. It also activated the expression of NLRP3, ASC, Caspase 1, and C-Caspase-1 in HET-1A cells. Brt also attenuated TRIM31/NLRP3-induced pathological injury in rats with RE through a molecular mechanism consistent with the in vitro results. Conclusions: Brt promotes the ubiquitination of NLRP3 through TRIM31 and attenuates esophageal epithelial damage induced by RE caused by acidic bile salt exposure. This study provides valuable insights into the mechanism of action of Brt in the treatment of RE and highlights its promising application in the prevention of NLRP3 inflammatory vesicle-associated inflammatory pathological injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Bovine papillomavirus (BPV) infection of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) can induce the development of masses with high growth, resulting in breathing and eating obstructions leading to animal suffering and death. Beyond this, BPV is related to economic losses worldwide by depressing meat and milk production as well as cattle by-products. Using PCR followed by Sanger sequencing, we were able to identify the high-risk Delta BPVs and the BPV44 on rumen cattle samples collected in slaughterhouses. These results can contribute to future epidemiological studies and vaccine studies regarding BPV infections. The Bos Taurus Papillomavirus, commonly known as bovine papillomavirus (BPV), can cause lesions in the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in cattle and induce the formation of papillomas in organs such as the pharynx, esophagus, rumen and reticulum. GIT papillomas can lead to feeding and breathing distress. Moreover, the sample collection is challenging, which reduces the BPV diagnosis in these organs. BPV can cause exophytic nodular, cauliflower-like, flat, filiform or atypical-shape papillomas at the epidermis. Histologically, the papillomas demonstrate orthokeratotic/parakeratotic hyperkeratosis and koilocytosis and, currently, BPV comprises 45 described types. The aim of this study was to carry out the genetic characterization of BPV present in rumen neoplastic lesions of cattle raised extensively in the Western Amazon region, Brazil. A total of 100 papillomatous ruminal samples were collected from animals slaughtered in Ji-Paraná and Urupá municipalities from the Rondônia state, Brazil. The samples were submitted to PCR using the primer pair FAP59/FAP64 and sequenced by the Sanger method. Histopathological analysis was performed on 24 samples, which had enough material for this purpose. As a result, samples were histologically classified as fibropapilloma and squamous papilloma. Among the samples analyzed, it was possible to identify the BPVs 2, 13 (Delta PVs) and 44, with one sample classified as a putative new subtype of BPV44. The present study could identify BPV13 and 44 types in cattle rumen tissues from the Brazilian Amazon region for the first time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Understanding how the gut communicates with the brain, via sensory nerves, is of significant interest to medical science. Enteroendocrine cells (EEC) that line the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract release neurochemicals, including the largest quantity of 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). How the release of substances, like 5-HT, from enterochromaffin (EC) cells activates vagal afferent nerve endings is unresolved. We performed anterograde labelling from nodose ganglia in vivo and identified vagal afferent axons and nerve endings in the mucosa of whole-mount full-length preparations of mouse colon. We then determined the spatial relationship between mucosal-projecting vagal afferent nerve endings and EC cells in situ using 3D imaging. The mean distances between vagal afferent nerve endings in the mucosa, or nearest varicosities along vagal afferent axon branches, and the nearest EC cell were 29.6 ± 19.2 μm (n = 107, N = 6) and 25.7 ± 15.2 μm (n = 119, N = 6), respectively. No vagal afferent endings made close contacts with EC cells. The distances between EC cells and vagal afferent endings are many hundreds of times greater than known distances between pre- and post-synaptic membranes (typically 10–20 nm) that underlie synaptic transmission in vertebrates. The absence of any close physical contacts between 5-HT-containing EC cells and vagal afferent nerve endings in the mucosa leads to the inescapable conclusion that the mechanism by which 5-HT release from ECs in the colonic mucosa occurs in a paracrine fashion, to activate vagal afferents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Diarrhoea linked to helminth resistance is a major problem in sheep health. Aims: To test whether the distribution of mast cells and eosinophils along the gastrointestinal tract is related to helminth resistance and to susceptibility to diarrhoea. Methods: At weaning, lambs were selected according to extreme (high or low) estimated breeding values for diarrhoea score (50 lambs per genotype, balanced for sex), and for faecal worm egg counts (FWEC). They grazed in single-sex groups in separate but similar enclosures under normal farm conditions (dry summer, wet winter) from autumn until spring, during which time diarrhoea score and FWEC were recorded monthly. Lambs that presented extreme phenotypic values for diarrhoea score and FWEC in August and September were slaughtered (n = 38) at the age of 14 months. For the abomasum, duodenum, ileum, jejunum, caecum and colon, we recorded the densities of eosinophils and mast cells, the number of helminths, their species and developmental stages. The data were pooled across enclosures/sexes and regression analysis was used to assess the relationships among pre-slaughter phenotype, helminth counts, and densities of mast cells and eosinophils. Results: Eosinophil density was five- to seven-fold greater in the ileum and jejunum than in the abomasum, duodenum, or colon. Mast cell density was greatest in the abomasum and duodenum, and gradually declined along the jejunum, ileum, caecum and colon. In the most immunologically active site, the jejunum, increasing eosinophil density was related to a decrease in the number of helminths (P < 0.05). Similarly, in the next most active site, the abomasum, increasing eosinophil density was related to decreases in the numbers of fourth-stage larvae and the total number of helminths (P < 0.05). In the abomasum, increasing mast cell density was related to declines in the numbers of Teladorsagia circumcincta , total helminth counts (P < 0.05) and FWEC, but was not related to diarrhoea score. Conclusions: Cell-mediated immune mechanisms in the gastrointestinal mucosa enhance resistance to internal parasites but also increase susceptibility to the diarrhoea in sheep. Implications: Eosinophil and mast cell responses to helminth infection help explain 'hypersensitivity diarrhoea'. In sheep, the severity of helminth infection is related to eosinophil density in the mucosa of the abomasum and jejunum, the most immunologically active sites in the gastro-intestinal tract. The severity of helminth infection is also related to mast cell density in the mucosa of the duodenum. Eosinophil and mast cell responses to helminth infection help explain 'hypersensitivity diarrhoea' in helminth-resistant sheep. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of stable carrageenan nanoparticles connected to the sulfate functional group of carrageenan and barium ion for the use of selectively targeting cancer cell and imaging contrast to help with diagnosis (tracing/imaging) is the concern of the present research. This study provides an overview of ion substitution chemistry, highlighting the role of ions and how they affect the applicability of carrageenan. The characteristic of barium sulfate, which is widely used as radiopaque to provide contrast for diagnostic radiographic examinations in the gastrointestinal mucosa, is provided by its linkage with the barium ion despite K+'s natural binding with carrageenan. The additional role of the Ba ion linked carrageenan was found highly selective for cancer cell through the in vitro cell line assay; however, the nonattachability to the normal cell makes useful to trace and treat the cancer cell. The tracing is possible because of the barium sulfate functional group and its nanosize molecule, which shows precision medicine, fluorescence, and X-ray/CT imaging character, to be utilized as the diagnostic purpose, especially to tumor cell. The apoptosis from the Ba2+ ion by the inhibition of outflux of K+ to disturb the osmosis of cell and selectivity of the molecules because of high pKa (Logarithms of acid dissociation constant) value, which makes the drug more active anionic (nonpolar) form in the cancer cell and ionic form (polar) in the normal cell, which avoids the interaction with normal cell and facilitate the interaction with cancer cell. In conclusion, the cancer cell selectivity with fluorescence and radiopaque properties of Ba ion linked carrageenan makes the molecule useful for tracing, imaging, and treating cancer cell with high selectivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Endoscopic features of intestinal transplant-associated microangiopathy (iTAM) have not been comprehensively investigated. This study aimed to examine the endoscopic characteristics of patients diagnosed with iTAM. Methods: This retrospective analysis included 14 patients pathologically diagnosed with iTAM after stem cell transplantation for hematolymphoid neoplasms (n = 13) or thalassemia (n = 1). The sex, age at diagnosis, endoscopic features, and prognosis of each patient were assessed. Serological markers for diagnosing transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy were also evaluated. Results: The mean age at the time of iTAM diagnosis was 40.2 years. Patients diagnosed based on the pathognomonic pathological changes of iTAM presented with diverse symptoms at the times of endoscopic examinations, including diarrhea (n = 10), abdominal pain (n = 5), nausea (n = 4), appetite loss (n = 2), bloody stools (n = 2), abdominal discomfort (n = 1), and vomiting (n = 1). At the final follow-up, six patients survived, while eight patients succumbed, with a median time of 100.5 days (range: 52–247) post-diagnosis. Endoscopic manifestations included erythematous mucosa (n = 14), erosions (n = 13), ulcers (n = 9), mucosal edema (n = 9), granular mucosa (n = 9), and villous atrophy (n = 4). Erosions and/or ulcers were primarily observed in the colon (10/14, 71%), followed by the ileum (9/13, 69%), stomach (4/10, 40%), cecum (5/14, 36%), duodenum (3/10, 30%), rectum (4/14, 29%), and esophagus (1/10, 10%). Cytomegalovirus infection (n = 4) and graft-versus-host disease (n = 2) coexisted within the gastrointestinal tract. Patients had de novo prolonged or progressive thrombocytopenia (6/14, 43%), decreased hemoglobin concentration (4/14, 29%), reduced serum haptoglobin level (3/14, 21%), and a sudden and persistent increase in lactate dehydrogenase level (2/14, 14%). Peripheral blood samples from 12 patients were evaluated for schistocytes, with none exceeding 4%. Conclusions: This study provides a comprehensive exploration of the endoscopic characteristics of iTAM. Notably, all patients exhibited erythematous mucosa throughout the gastrointestinal tract, accompanied by prevalent manifestations, such as erosions (93%), ulcers (64%), mucosal edema (64%), granular mucosa (64%), and villous atrophy (29%). Because of the low positivity for serological markers of transplant-associated thrombotic microangiopathy in patients with iTAM, endoscopic evaluation and biopsy of these lesions are crucial, even in the absence of these serological features. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) can cause intestinal inflammation and diarrhea in yaks, which has a negative impact on their economic value. In recent years, probiotics have gained increasing attention as a pure, natural, nontoxic, harmless, and residue-free additive. However, the underlying mechanisms by which probiotics safeguard against ETEC are not completely elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the protective effect of Enterococcus faecium (E. faecium) against ETEC infection in mice through oral gavage. Morphological changes were examined through light microscopy. The expressions of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, IL-10, NF-κB, and NLRP3), tight junction protein (ZO-1, Claudin-1), and pyroptosis (Caspase-1, Caspase-4, and gasdermin D (GSDMD)) were detected using immunohistochemistry and quantitative real-time PCR. The results indicate that ETEC infection triggers the activation of inflammation-related pathways (NF-κB) and NLRP3 inflammasome, leading to the expression of a large number of inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, the activation of NLRP3 leads to the release of GSDMD activation through Caspase-1, ultimately resulting in inflammatory injury and pyroptosis. Feeding mice E. faecium early resulted in an increase in the expression of tight junction protein, a reduction in inflammatory cytokines, and alleviation of inflammatory injury and pyroptosis in intestinal tissues. Our research indicates that E. faecium has the ability to antagonize ETEC and provide protection to the gastrointestinal mucosa in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To appraise and synthesize research investigating optimizing the administration of solid oral dosage forms (SODFs) to adults with swallowing difficulties. Design: An integrative review. Methods: An electronic search was conducted on Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (Public Medline interface), Elsevier SciVerse Scopus and Scientific Electronic Library Online (updated February 2023). Restriction regarding the publication date was not considered for the inclusion of records. Studies addressing risks, general aspects, recommendations about patient postural adjustments, swallowing techniques, swallowing aids and aspects of concealment of SODFs were included. Results: Fifty-three records published between 2002 and 2021 were included. The main administration risks were aspiration, asphyxia and solid oral dosage form-induced oral/oesophageal mucosal lesions. The most frequent general aspect reported was administering one oral dosage form at a time. The sitting position was the most patient postural adjustment mentioned. The most frequently reported solid oral dosage form swallowing technique was the lean-forward method for capsules. Solid oral dosage form swallowing aids cited: tongue and throat lubricant and solid oral dosage form coating device, swallowing cup and swallowing straw. Conclusion: The literature data on administering SODFs for adults with swallowing difficulties were appraised and synthesized. Some aspects, for example, not administering SODFs simultaneously, can make swallowing safer. Postural adjustments and solid oral dosage form swallowing aids are important to avoid administration risks. Swallowing SODFs can be easier if learned by techniques. Liquid and food are helpful as vehicles, and several of these have been listed. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care: By optimizing the contributing factors of administering oral pharmacotherapy, the nurse can use appropriate practices to improve patient safety. Additionally, knowing and establishing the administration aspects are reasonable steps for standardizing care for patients with swallowing oral dosage form difficulties. Impact: • This study addressed administering SODFs to adult patients with swallowing difficulties. • The administration of SODFs to adult patients with swallowing difficulties can be optimized if only one oral dosage form at a time is administrated and if patient postural adjustments, swallowing techniques and swallowing aids are used. • This investigation will impact the care of patients with swallowing difficulties. Reporting Method: The authors declare they adhered to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines and report following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 Statement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insulin dysregulation in horses is characterised by hyperinsulinaemia and/or tissue insulin resistance and is associated with increased risk of laminitis. There is growing evidence in other species that dopamine attenuates insulin release from the pancreas; however, this has yet to be examined in horses. The present study aimed to identify whether there are cells capable of producing or responding to dopamine within the equine gastrointestinal mucosa and pancreas. Tissue samples were collected from the stomach, small and large intestines, and pancreas of six mature horses following euthanasia. Samples of stomach contents and faeces were also collected. Immunohistochemistry was performed to identify tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), the rate-limiting enzyme for dopamine production, and dopamine D2 receptors in tissue sections. Additional immunostaining for glucagon, insulin and chromogranin A was performed to identify α cells, β cells and enteroendocrine cells, respectively. Gastric parietal cells expressed both TH and D2 receptors, indicating that they are capable of both producing and responding to dopamine. Dopamine was quantified in stomach contents and faeces by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection, with similar concentrations found at both sites. Dopamine D2 receptors were expressed in duodenal epithelial cells but not more distally. A subset of enteroendocrine cells, located sporadically along the gastrointestinal tract, were found to be immunopositive for the D2 receptor. In pancreatic islets, TH was present in α cells, while D2 receptors were strongly expressed in β cells and variably expressed in α cells. These findings are consistent with studies of other species; however, dynamic studies are required to further elucidate the role of dopamine in the modulation of insulin and glucagon secretion in horses. This descriptive study provides preliminary evidence for a potential role of dopamine to act as a paracrine messenger in the gastrointestinal mucosa and endocrine pancreas of horses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to investigate the potential of Ipomoea carnea flower methanolic extract (ICME) as a natural gastroprotective therapy against ethanol-induced gastric ulcers, particularly in individuals exposed to ionizing radiation (IR). The study focused on the Nrf2/HO−1 signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in protecting the gastrointestinal mucosa from oxidative stress and inflammation. Male Wistar rats were divided into nine groups, the control group received distilled water orally for one week, while other groups were treated with ethanol to induce stomach ulcers, IR exposure, omeprazole, and different doses of ICME in combination with ethanol and/or IR. The study conducted comprehensive analyses, including LC-HRESI-MS/MS, to characterize the phenolic contents of ICME. Additionally, the Nrf2/HO−1 pathway, oxidative stress parameters, gastric pH, and histopathological changes were examined. The results showed that rats treated with IR and/or ethanol exhibited histopathological alterations, increased lipid peroxidation, decreased antioxidant enzyme activity, and reduced expression levels of Nrf2 and HO−1. However, pretreatment with ICME significantly improved these parameters. Phytochemical analysis identified 39 compounds in ICME, with flavonoids, hydroxybenzoic acids, and fatty acids as the predominant compounds. Virtual screening and molecular dynamics simulations suggested that ICME may protect against gastric ulceration by inhibiting oxidative stress and inflammatory mediators. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of ICME as a natural gastroprotective therapy for preventing gastric ulcers. These findings contribute to the development of novel interventions for gastrointestinal disorders using natural plant extracts particularly in individuals with a history of radiation exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ascariasis (roundworm) is the most common parasitic helminth infection globally and can lead to significant morbidity in children including chronic lung disease. Children become infected with Ascaris spp. via oral ingestion of eggs. It has long been assumed that Ascaris egg hatching and larval translocation across the gastrointestinal mucosa to initiate infection occurs in the small intestine. Here, we show that A. suum larvae hatched in the host stomach in a murine model. Larvae utilize acidic mammalian chitinase (AMCase; acid chitinase; Chia) from chief cells and acid pumped by parietal cells to emerge from eggs on the surface of gastric epithelium. Furthermore, antagonizing AMCase and gastric acid in the stomach decreases parasitic burden in the liver and lungs and attenuates lung disease. Given Ascaris eggs are chitin-coated, the gastric corpus would logically be the most likely organ for egg hatching, though this is the first study directly evincing the essential role of the host gastric corpus microenvironment. These findings point towards potential novel mechanisms for therapeutic targets to prevent ascariasis and identify a new biomedical significance of AMCase in mammals. Author summary: Ascariasis is the most common helminth infection and leads to significant global morbidity. Current therapies specifically target intraluminal adult intestinal worms and do not provide sufficient protection against the Ascaris larva. To reduce Ascaris-induced morbidity, novel interventions are needed that target Ascaris larval migration which calls for a better understanding of the Ascaris larval migration cycle. After oral ingestion of Ascaris eggs, previous studies have indicated that Ascaris larval migration initiates in the small intestine. However, our study demonstrates that Ascaris larva begin the migration cycle by hatching in the stomach by using the host's acidic mammalian chitinase and stomach acid to help degrade the chitinous egg shell. The larvae subsequently translocate across the stomach mucosa in this mouse model. Our study provides the first insight that the gastric corpus microenvironment plays a critical role in Ascaris egg hatching and initiation of infection, and will aid in the identification of novel drug targets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the intestinal mucosa and a prevalent gastrointestinal condition in developed countries. Peiminine, derived from the Fritillaria imperialis plant, exhibits remarkable anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. This study aims to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of peiminine in an experimental model of ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis was induced intra-rectally in all groups, except the negative control, using 100 μl of 4% acetic acid. Peiminine treatment was initiated after ulcerative colitis induction and symptom manifestation. After the final injection, mice were sacrificed on day 15 for assessment. Various parameters were evaluated, including disease activity index, myeloperoxidase activity, nitric oxide levels, production and expression of IL-1, IL-6, TNF-α cytokines, and expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, and COX2 genes. Microscopic pathological evaluation was performed on colon tissue. Peiminine treatment resulted in reduced levels of NO, MPO, IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α. Furthermore, the expression of IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α genes, iNOS, and COX2 genes was decreased in response to peiminine treatment in these mice. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of peiminine in alleviating inflammatory manifestations and mitigating intestinal tissue damage in an experimental model of ulcerative colitis, probably by anti-inflammatory procedure. Peiminine holds potential as a therapeutic adjunct for the management of ulcerative colitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Helicobacter pylori (HP) infections affect approximately one-third of children worldwide. In China, the incidence of HP infection in children ranges from approximately 30% to 60%. In addition to damaging the gastrointestinal tract mucosa, HP infection in children can negatively affect their growth and development, hematology, respiratory and hepatobiliary system, skin, nutritional metabolism, and autoimmune system. However, the rate of HP eradication also fell considerably from the previous rate due to the presence of drug-resistant HP strains and the limited types of antibiotics that can be used in young patients. Vitamin D3 (VitD3) is a steroid hormone that can reduce inflammation in the stomach mucosa induced by HP and can alleviate and eradicate HP through a variety of pathways and mechanisms, including immune regulation and the stimulation of antimicrobial peptide (AMP) secretion and Ca2+ influx, to reestablish lysosomal acidification; thus, these results provide new strategies and ideas for the eradication of drug-resistant HP strains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease is a set of chronic inflammatory diseases that mainly develop in the gastrointestinal mucosa, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Gastrointestinal membrane permeability is an important factor influencing the pharmacological effects of pharmaceuticals administered orally for treating inflammatory bowel disease and other diseases. Understanding the presence or absence of changes in pharmacokinetic properties under a disease state facilitates effective pharmacotherapy. In this paper, we reviewed the gastrointestinal membrane function in ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease from the perspective of in vitro membrane permeability and electrophysiological parameters. Information on in vivo permeability in humans is summarized. We also overviewed the inflammatory bowel disease research using gut-on-a-chip, in which some advances have recently been achieved. It is expected that these findings will be exploited for the development of therapeutic drugs for inflammatory bowel disease and the optimization of treatment options and regimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastro‐esophageal reflux disease has systematically increase in Western countries over recent years. Health benefits of Manuka honey allows to use it for medical purposes, for example reduction of inflammation of gastrointestinal mucosa. Thus, the aim of research was the application of Manuka honey in treatment patients with Gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD). The study was conducted on a group of 30 patients, which consumed Manuka honey or placebo for a period of 4 weeks. The gastroscopy and histology has been made twice, that is before and after experiment. Furthermore, the symptoms reports and nutritional interviews have been collected. The endoscopical examination showed that in Manuka group the improvement was 73.3%. In the sub‐groups of esophagitis‐A and esophagitis‐B the improvement rate was 81.8%, and 50%, respectively. However, in the placebo group, the general improvement rate was much lower. The results have been confirmed in the histopathological examination. Moreover, it is worth noticing, that in sub‐group declaring non‐medication, the improvement was only for patients consuming Manuka honey. Changes of symptoms in subjective assessment of patients were evaluated after 2 and 4 weeks. The improvement rate in Manuka group was 86.7% and 100%, while in Placebo group it was only 26.7% and 40%, respectively. Manuka honey seems to be effective in GERD, which have been confirmed by subjective feelings of patients and by endoscopic and histopathologic examination. Our research is a pilot study before administration of Manuka honey to larger population. The results are promising and may facilitate the quality of life of patients with GERD. To the best of authors knowledge, there is no other study concerning the use of Manuka honey in gastro‐esophageal reflux disease. Manuka honey seems to be effective in Gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD), which have been confirmed by subjective feelings of patients and by endoscopic and histopathologic examination. Obtained results are very encouraging and may improve treatment of GERD and facilitate the quality of life of patients, for example relieving heartburn and regurgitation. Manuka honey combined with proper diet and drugs could be a triple therapy regimen for GERD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apparent ileal digestibility can be corrected to give the true ileal digestibility of the nitrogen and amino acids provided by the diet, by determining the flow of endogenous nitrogen and amino acids (from desquamated epithelial cells of gastrointestinal mucosa, mucins and digestive enzymes). This flow of nitrogen and amino acids has been studied in adult rabbits fitted with a T-cannula, but remains unknown for growing rabbits. The aim of this work was to propose a method to estimate endogenous nitrogen and amino acid losses in the ileum of growing rabbits slaughtered at 64 d of age from 20:00 h. For this purpose, two experiments were carried out. The first was performed with 10 weaned rabbits fed with a diet with casein as the only source of protein (whose ileal digestibility is 100%) and labelled with ytterbium. This experiment allowed us to identify the relationship between the ileal flow of endogenous nitrogen (IFEN) and the dry matter intake in the last 24 h before slaughter (DMI), which fits the equation: IFEN (mg/d)=5.99 DMI (g/d) +133; (R²=0.778, residual standard deviation=138, P<0.001, n=10). The second experiment was carried out with 36 rabbits fed the same diet but without ytterbium, with whose ileal content 9 pools were constituted to determine the amino acid profile of endogenous nitrogen, which was found to be rich in glutamic acid, serine, aspartic acid, glycine, valine and threonine (15.97±1.33; 8.00±0.80; 7.06±0.72; 6.24±0.77; 5.48±0.51 and 4.97±0.47 g/16 g of N, respectively) and poor in methionine and histidine (1.05±0.06 and 1.34±0.16 g/16 g of N, respectively). Knowing the DMI of a certain growing rabbit in the 24 h prior to slaughter, the combined use of the equation and the amino acid profile obtained makes it possible to estimate the ileal endogenous losses of each amino acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Oregano essential oil is a volatile essential oil that plays an important regulatory role in various species, but whether it has an immune-boosting effect on castrated Holstein bulls has not been reported to date. Thus, the effects of oregano essential oil on IgA+, IgG+, and IgM+ cells in the jejuna of castrated Holstein bulls were studied. The results show that the addition of the oil did not change the diffuse distribution of IgA+, IgG+, and IgM+ cells, but repaired damaged intestinal epithelium, inhibited inflammation, and reduced the content of IgA+, IgG+ and IgM+ cells in the jejunum. This provides strong evidence for further research on the mechanism by which oregano essential oil improves the production performance of castrated Holstein bulls. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of oregano essential oil on IgA+, IgG+, and IgM+ cells in the jejunum of castrated Holstein bulls. Twelve castrated Holstein bulls were randomly divided into control (YCK) and oregano essential oil (YEO) groups. Pathological changes in the jejunum were observed by HE staining, and the expression levels of IgA, IgG, and IgM in the jejunum were detected by ELISA. The distributions of IgA+, IgG+, and IgM+ cells in the jejunum were analysed by multiplex immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry. The results showed that the jejunal villi were detached in the YCK group, which may have been related to inflammation, while the intestinal epithelium was clear and intact in the YEO group. The expressions of IgA, IgG, and IgM were significantly reduced by 40.75%, 30.76%, and 50.87%. The IgA+, IgG+, and IgM+ cells were diffusely distributed in the lamina propria of the jejunum, and were reduced by 17.07%, 6.44%, and 6.15%, respectively. Oregano essential oil did not alter the distribution characteristics of IgA+, IgG+, or IgM+ cells in the jejunum, but it suppressed inflammatory response, decreased immunoglobulin content, and significantly enhanced the formation of an immune barrier in the gastrointestinal mucosa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in Clinical Endoscopy, discusses the case of a 60-year-old man who underwent an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. The endoscopy revealed whitish granular mucosa on the greater curvature side, posterior wall of the high body, and cardia of the stomach. The patient had been undergoing continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis for 8 years and was taking various medications. The most likely diagnosis was gastric lanthanum carbonate deposition, which is a known side effect of lanthanum carbonate, a medication used to treat hyperphosphatemia in patients with end-stage renal disease. The article emphasizes the importance of histopathological examination and a detailed medical history for a definitive diagnosis. It also states that gastric lanthanum deposition is generally considered safe and does not cause clinical symptoms. [Extracted from the article]

Trefoil factor family protein 3 (Tff3) protects the gastrointestinal mucosa and has a complex mode of action in different tissues. Here, we aimed to determine the effect of Tff3 deficiency on intestinal tissues in a long-term high-fat-diet (HFD)-fed model. A novel congenic strain without additional metabolically relevant mutations (Tff3-/-/C57Bl6NCrl strain, male and female) was used. Wild type (Wt) and Tff3-deficient mice of both sexes were fed a HFD for 36 weeks. Long-term feeding of a HFD induces different effects on the intestinal structure of Tff3-deficient male and female mice. For the first time, we found sex-specific differences in duodenal morphology. HFD feeding reduced microvilli height in Tff3-deficient females compared to that in Wt females, suggesting a possible effect on microvillar actin filament dynamics. These changes could not be attributed to genes involved in ER and oxidative stress, apoptosis, or inflammation. Tff3-deficient males exhibited a reduced cecal crypt depth compared to that of Wt males, but this was not the case in females. Microbiome-related short-chain fatty acid content was not affected by Tff3 deficiency in HFD-fed male or female mice. Sex-related differences due to Tff3 deficiency imply the need to consider both sexes in future studies on the role of Tff in intestinal function. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gut is the body's largest immune organ, and the intestinal barrier prevents harmful substances such as bacteria and toxins from passing through the gastrointestinal mucosa. Intestinal barrier dysfunction is closely associated with various diseases. However, there are currently no FDA-approved therapies targeting the intestinal epithelial barriers. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs), a class of RNA transcripts with a length of more than 200 nucleotides and no coding capacity, are essential for the development and regulation of a variety of biological processes and diseases. lncRNAs are involved in the intestinal barrier function and homeostasis maintenance. This article reviews the emerging role of lncRNAs in the intestinal barrier and highlights the potential applications of lncRNAs in the treatment of various intestinal diseases by reviewing the literature on cells, animal models, and clinical patients. The aim is to explore potential lncRNAs involved in the intestinal barrier and provide new ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of intestinal barrier damage-associated diseases in the clinical setting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to factors such as low pressure, low oxygen and cold in the plateau environment, people who enter the plateau rapidly are susceptible to digestive system diseases, such as upper abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting and other gastrointestinal dysfunction, which seriously affect the health and work ability of people who enter the plateau rapidly. The gastrointestinal dysfunction caused by the rapid advance to the plateau is mainly reflected in three aspects: gastrointestinal motility dysfunction, impaired mucosal barrier function, and intestinal flora imbalance. At present, the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal dysfunction is still not very clear, and there are fewer drugs for targeted prevention and treatment. Gastrointestinal hormones, oxygen free radicals, inflammatory factors, intestinal flora and other factors, as well as the protective effects of related drugs were reviewed in this paper to provide treatment options and theoretical basis for the prevention and treatment of the gastrointestinal emergency response caused by entering the plateau. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Invasive stratified mucin-producing carcinoma is a recently recognized adenocarcinoma with distinctive features. It was first described in the cervix but similar tumors have since been reported in the penis, anus and prostate. In the gastrointestinal tract, the phenomenon of epithelial stratification has an interesting embryologic morphogenesis. Gastrointestinal mucosa starts off as nascent columnar epithelium that is subsequently patterned to confer regional specific functions. However, in disease states, normal architectural patterning can be disrupted by aberrant differentiation. Given this background and the phenotypic plasticity of neoplastic cells, we were interested in ascertaining whether invasive stratified mucin-producing carcinoma occurs in the colorectum. Methods: This was a retrospective study of all 584 cases of colorectal carcinoma accessioned at our institution over a 2-year period (January 2021- December 2022). Cases were analyzed to determine which fulfilled the criteria for invasive stratified mucin-producing carcinoma. Results: There were 9 cases of colorectal invasive stratified mucin-producing carcinoma—one pure form and 8 mixed. They showed the classic colorectal (CK20 + , CDX2 + , CK7-) immunostaining profile but, based on various morphologic criteria, they could be distinguished from conventional adenocarcinoma NOS, mucinous, signet ring cell, medullary, goblet cell and undifferentiated carcinomas. About half the cases were MLH1/PMS2 deficient and BRAF &/or PIK3CA mutated, which aligns with the hypermutated phenotype. Conclusions: Colorectal invasive stratified mucin-producing carcinoma appears to be a real entity, best recognized in its early stages. It appears to be a high-grade carcinoma. With tumor progression, it evolves into a mucinous adenocarcinoma with a proclivity towards signet ring cells. In summary, the study of this tumor, particularly in its early stages, provides useful clues to further understanding the biology and progression of large bowel cancer. Further studies are required to learn more about this tumor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition which includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD), the origins of which are not yet fully understood. Both conditions involve an exacerbated immune response in the intestinal tract, leading to tissue inflammation. Dendritic cells (DCs) are antigen-presenting cells crucial for maintaining tolerance in the gastrointestinal mucosa. Previous research has indicated that DC recruitment to the intestinal mucosa is more pronounced in individuals with IBD, but the specific mechanisms governing this migration remain unclear. This study aimed to assess the expression of various homing markers and the migratory abilities of circulating DC subsets in response to intestinal chemotactic signals. Additionally, this study examined how golimumab and ustekinumab impact these characteristics in individuals with IBD compared to healthy controls. The findings revealed that a particular subset of DCs known as type 2 conventional DCs (cDC2) displayed a more pronounced migratory profile compared to other DC subsets. Furthermore, the study observed that golimumab and ustekinumab had varying effects on the migratory profile of cDC1 in individuals with CD and UC. While CCL2 did not exert a chemoattractant effect on DC subsets in this patient cohort, treatment with golimumab and ustekinumab enhanced their migratory capacity towards CCL2 and CCL25 while reducing their migration towards MadCam1. In conclusion, this study highlights that cDC2 exhibits a heightened migratory profile towards the gastrointestinal mucosa compared to other DC subsets. This finding could be explored further for the development of new diagnostic biomarkers or the identification of potential immunomodulatory targets in the context of IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biopharmaceuticals, including proteins and peptides, have revolutionized the treatment of a wide range of diseases, from diabetes and cardiovascular disorders to virus infections and cancer. Despite their efficacy, most of these macromolecular drugs require parenteral administration because of their high molecular weight and relative instability. Over the past 40 years, only a few oral peptide drugs have entered clinical trials, even when formulated with substantial amounts of permeation enhancers. To overcome the epithelial barrier, devices that inject drugs directly into the gastrointestinal mucosa have been proposed recently. However, the robustness and safety of those complex systems are yet to be assessed. In this study, we introduced an innovative technology to boost drug absorption by synergistically combining noninvasive stretching of the buccal mucosa with permeation enhancers. Inspired by the unique structural features of octopus suckers, a self-applicable suction patch was engineered, enabling strong adhesion to and effective mechanical deformation of the mucosal tissue. In dogs, this suction patch achieved bioavailability up to two orders of magnitude higher than those of the commercial tablet formulation of desmopressin, a peptide drug known for its poor oral absorption. Moreover, systemic exposure comparable to that of the approved oral semaglutide tablet was achieved without further optimization. Last, a first-in-human study involving 40 healthy participants confirmed the dosage form's acceptability, thereby supporting the clinical translatability of this simple yet effective platform technology. Editor's summary: Proteins, peptides, and other macromolecular drugs are generally not well-absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract and therefore usually require intravenous administration. Here, Luo and colleagues engineered a suction patch modelled on octopus suckers that stretched the buccal mucosa, allowing for increased absorption. When combined with permeation enhancers, the suction patch could improve the bioavailability of desmopressin over the oral formulation in beagles. The authors also conducted a first-in-human test of the suction patch, finding that short-term use was acceptable to participants. Although further study is needed, these findings suggest that the octopus sucker–inspired buccal mucosa suction patch might be an alternative for some drugs that can currently only be given parenterally. —Melissa Norton [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we report the development of a micellar system based on a poly(methacrylic acid)-b-poly(ε-caprolactone)-b-poly(methacrylic acid) triblock copolymer (PMAA16-b-PCL35-b-PMAA16) for the oral delivery of resveratrol. The micellar nanocarriers were designed to comprise a PCL core for solubilizing the poorly water-soluble drug and a hydrated PMAA corona with bioadhesive properties for providing better contact with the gastrointestinal mucosa. The micelles were first formed in an aqueous media via the solvent evaporation method and then loaded with resveratrol (72% encapsulation efficiency). Studies by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and dynamic and electrophoretic light scattering (DLS and PALS) revealed a spherical shape, nanoscopic size (100 nm) and a negative surface charge (−30 mV) of the nanocarriers. Loading of the drug slightly decreased the hydrodynamic diameter (Dh) and increased the ƺ-potential of micelles. In vitro dissolution tests showed that 80% and 100% of resveratrol were released in 24 h in buffers with pH 1.2 and 6.8, respectively, whereas for the same time, not more than 10% of pure resveratrol was dissolved. A heat-induced albumin denaturation assay demonstrated the advantage of the aqueous micellar formulation of resveratrol, which possessed anti-inflammatory potential as high as that of the pure drug. Further, the micellar resveratrol (5 µM) exerted a strong protective effect and maintained viability of mucosa epithelial HT-29 cells in a co-cultural model, representing the production of inflammatory cytokines. For comparison, the pure resveratrol at the same concentration did not protect the damaged HT-29 cells at all. Thus, the present study revealed that the PMAA-b-PCL-b-PMAA copolymeric micelles might be considered appropriate nanocarriers for the oral delivery of resveratrol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Exercise‐induced gastrointestinal syndrome occurs in dogs and people and might compromise athlete performance by increasing intestinal permeability and causing gastrointestinal erosions. Racing sled dogs often receive acid suppressant prophylaxis which decreases the incidence of gastric erosions induced by exercise. The objectives were to quantify intestinal injury by measuring serum pro‐inflammatory cytokine concentrations before and after exercise and to evaluate gastrointestinal mucosa using video capsule endoscopy after exercise. Materials and Methods: Prospective study of 12 racing Alaskan sled dogs receiving approximately 1 mg/kg omeprazole once daily from the day before the race until race completion. Blood was drawn before and 8 to 10 hours after an endurance race for the quantification of cytokines. Gastrointestinal tract mucosa was assessed with video capsule endoscopy immediately post‐race. Results: Eight of nine dogs (89%; 95% confidence interval 52 to 100%) had gastric erosions; all dogs (100%, 95% confidence interval 63 to 100%) had small intestinal erosions. Most of the dogs (seven of nine) had straw or foreign material present. Cytokine levels were not different from before to after the race. Clinical Significance: Video capsule endoscopy identified gastrointestinal tract mucosal erosions after exercise in all dogs receiving once‐daily omeprazole treatment, though other causes for the lesions besides exercise are possible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article discusses a case of small intestinal angioedema induced by angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACEIs). The patient, a 23-year-old woman, experienced acute abdominal pain after taking the ACEI enalapril. Laboratory tests showed increased D-dimer levels, and abdominal computed tomography (CT) revealed swelling and thickening of the small intestine. The patient's condition improved after discontinuing enalapril, and follow-up CT scans showed improvement. The article highlights the potential for ACEI-induced angioedema to be misdiagnosed and suggests that elevated D-dimer levels may serve as a diagnostic marker. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a case study of a 15-year-old male who presented with a headache and recurrent fever, which was initially diagnosed as purulent meningitis. After receiving vancomycin, the patient developed rashes, itching, and skin peeling, leading to the discontinuation of the medication. Subsequently, the patient experienced abdominal pain, watery diarrhea, and poor appetite. Further examination revealed the presence of human herpesvirus 6B (HHV-6B) in the cerebrospinal fluid. The patient then developed gastrointestinal hemorrhage, and various tests were conducted to identify the cause. The findings suggested that the patient had drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) syndrome, which manifested as severe gastritis and colitis. The patient received nutritional support, anti-infective therapy, and management for DRESS syndrome and intestinal failure. Unfortunately, the patient died due to severe fungal endocarditis. The article highlights the importance of early recognition of drug-induced reactions in gastrointestinal mucosal damage for accurate clinical diagnosis. [Extracted from the article]

Lactoferrin, IGF‐1 and IgG are three well‐known bioactive proteins found in bovine colostrum. We studied the effects of these three active ingredients on the levels of eight cytokines in serum and on the cellular communication networks in vivo by oral administration, intraperitoneal injection and intravenous injection. The results suggested that bioactive ingredients, especially biomacromolecules, can induce different effects, even opposite effects, on the immune system depending on the route of administration. These effects are related to both the functions of the bioactive ingredient in vivo and to its specific receptor binding in the gastrointestinal mucosa that activates different signalling pathways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute esophageal necrosis (AEN) is a rare disease characterized by the appearance of diffuse black mucosa on upper gastrointestinal endoscopy; the condition often progresses to esophageal stenosis in the chronic phase. A 70‐year‐old man was admitted to a neighborhood hospital with the diagnosis of alcoholic ketoacidosis and an upper gastrointestinal endoscopy performed to investigate the symptom of esophageal tightness revealed AEN. The patient developed esophageal stenosis with scarring in the chronic phase and was referred to our hospital for surgery 6 months after the diagnosis of AEN. We performed thoracoscopic esophagectomy with the patient in the prone position. Although the esophagus was thickened and strong adhesions were present around the esophagus due to inflammation, we were able to complete the surgical procedure thoracoscopically. In patients presenting with benign esophageal stenosis developing after AEN, thoracoscopic esophagectomy may be a useful treatment option, even in the presence of severe fibrosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal mucositis is a serious and dose-limiting toxic side effect of oncologic treatment. Interruption of cancer treatment due to gastrointestinal mucositis leads to a significant decrease in cure rates and consequently to the deterioration of a patient's quality of life. Natural polysaccharides show a variety of beneficial effects, including a gastroprotective effect. Treatment with soluble dietary fiber (SDF) from yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) biomass residues protected the gastric and intestinal mucosa in models of gastrointestinal injury. In this study, we investigated the protective therapeutic effect of SDF on 5-FU-induced mucositis in male and female mice. Oral treatment of the animals with SDF did not prevent weight loss but reduced the disease activity index and preserved normal intestinal function by alleviating diarrhea and altered gastrointestinal transit. SDF preserved the length of the colon and histological damage caused by 5-FU. SDF significantly restored the oxidative stress and inflammation in the intestine and the enlargement and swelling of the spleen induced by 5-FU. In conclusion, SDF may be a promising adjuvant strategy for the prevention and treatment of intestinal mucositis induced by 5-FU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining the normal functioning of mucin-secreting cells is essential for the health of gastrointestinal tract mucosa, with any modifications of the mucus barrier being followed by mucosal morpho-functional alterations (Petrou and Crouzier, 2018). One of the prebiotics known for its beneficial effects on the digestive system is inulin, a plant-derived fructan, widely used in complementary medicine. In this respect, our study aimed to evaluate the possible modifications to intestinal mucosa structure and functions induced by long-term oral inulin administration. During the 8-week study, groups of 8 Wistar rats (n = 4/sex) received normal saline solution (control), 625, and 1250 mg/kg/bw of inulin powder. Body weight and feed consumption were recorded daily. On day 29 an interim sacrifice was performed (n = 4/group). The remaining animals continued to receive treatment until day 56. Necropsy examination, histological (Goldner's trichrome staining), and histochemical (AB-PAS reaction) analysis of digestive system organs were performed on both interim and terminal sacrifices, for all the animals included in the study. The resulting histological and histochemical findings were consistent and confirmed that direct contact between the prebiotic and intestine mucosa did not cause any irritations, inflammations or functional alterations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) is the predominant mycotoxin that originated toxicity in broilers through oxidative damage, intestinal barrier dysfunction, reduced immune system and dysfunction of microorganisms and enzymes in target organs. The intestine is the first AFB1 target organ destroyed after the bird's body is induced. This review summarises the current knowledge of the negative results of AFB1‐induced intestinal damage on broiler production. It was conducted in accordance with the relevant studies in the cited literatures being retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, Science Direct and Web of Science. First, AFB1 can change the intestinal barrier function by destroying the intestinal architecture, tissue and cell integrity of the gut epithelium. Second, AFB1 can damage the immune barrier function of the gastrointestinal mucosa. Third, the microbiota of birds interacts closely with the ingested aflatoxin. Finally, because broilers are tremendously sensitive to AFB1 contamination, the poisonous and noxious effects of this mycotoxin in the broiler industry cause millions of dollars in losses every year. This review briefly discussed that the AFB1, which affects the intestines of broiler chickens, was reduced the immune apparatus, antioxidant protection system, gastric system, and broiler production status and its impact on human health. Therefore, this review will improve our perception of the important intestine in a bird's health and the adverse effect of AFB1. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple sclerosis (MS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are autoimmune disorders characterized by inflammatory episodes affecting the brain and the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, respectively. The frequent association between MS and IBD suggests that both conditions may share common pathogenic mechanisms. However, different responses to biological therapies indicate differences in immune mechanisms of inflammation. Anti-CD20 therapies are high efficacy treatments increasingly used to control inflammatory bursts in MS, but they may alter GI homeostasis and promote the development of bowel inflammation in susceptible individuals. This review analyzes the mechanistic association between immunity in MS and IBD, the effect of anti-CD20 therapies on the gut microenvironment, and provides recommendations for early detection and management of GI toxicities in the context of B-cell depletion in MS patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The human gastrointestinal mucosa is colonized by thousands of microorganisms, which participate in a variety of physiological functions. Intestinal dysbiosis is closely associated with the pathogenesis of several human diseases. Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs), which include NK cells, ILC1s, ILC2s, ILC3s and LTi cells, are a type of innate immune cells. They are enriched in the mucosal tissues of the body, and have recently received extensive attention. The gut microbiota and its metabolites play important roles in various intestinal mucosal diseases, such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), allergic disease, and cancer. Therefore, studies on ILCs and their interaction with the gut microbiota have great clinical significance owing to their potential for identifying pharmacotherapy targets for multiple related diseases. This review expounds on the progress in research on ILCs differentiation and development, the biological functions of the intestinal microbiota, and its interaction with ILCs in disease conditions in order to provide novel ideas for disease treatment in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It is known that balance diet is the key success for better production in poultry. The digestive physiology is regulated by the neurocrine and endocrine secretions. Growth, secretion, motility, cell signalling, vasoregulation, cell proliferation and differentiation of the epithelial cells of the alimentary canal are reported to be controlled by the peptides or amines released from the gut endocrine cells and enteric neurons. References particularly on systematic study of gastrointestinal endocrine cells in duck as regards to histomorphology and cytochemistry are gravely scanty. Hence the present investigation envisages authenticating the histomorphological characters and cytochemical behaviour of the gastrointestinal endocrine cells in duck. Methods: For this study the abdomen of six Khaki campbell ducks from either sex was cut open following euthanasia. Tissue pieces from different segments of gut were collected and processed routinely to get 7-8 µ thick serial paraffin sections. The tissue sections were stained for evaluation of histomorphological and histochemical characters of the entero-endocrine cells. Result: A panel of seven cytochemical stains identified nine endocrine cell types in the digestive mucosa of Khaki Campbell duck i.e. basally granulated oval cell, densely granulated spindle shaped cell, densely granulated oval cell, diffusely granulated oval cell, pyramidal cell, densely granulated elongated cell, densely granulated pyriform cell, peripherally granulated spherical cell and nonargentaffin chromaffin oval cell. The cells occurred in single or in small clusters in the basal or middle or neck part of glandular epithelium or in the surface epithelium. All the endocrine cells were 'close type'. Cytochemically they were four types i.e. argentaffin, argyrophil, chromaffin and APUD (Amine precursor uptake and decarboxylation) cells. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Primary malignant melanomas of the Gastrointestinal mucosa are uncommon. Most cases of gastrointestinal (GI) melanomas are secondary, arising from metastasis at distant sites. The purpose of this study is to assess to what extent the interaction between independent prognostic factors (age and tumor site) of primary GI melanoma influence survival. Furthermore, we also aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics, survival outcomes, and independent prognostic factors of patients with primary GI melanoma in the past decade. Methods: A total of 399 patients diagnosed with primary GI melanoma, between 2008 and 2017, were enrolled in our study by retrieving data from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. We analyzed demographics, clinical characteristics, and overall mortality (OM) as well as cancer-specific mortality (CSM) of primary GI melanoma. Variables with a p value < 0.1 in the univariate Cox regression were incorporated into the multivariate Cox model (model 1) to determine the independent prognostic factors, with a hazard ratio (HR) of greater than 1 representing adverse prognostic factors. Furthermore, we analyzed the effect of the interaction between age and primary location on mortality (model 2). Results: Multivariate cox proportional hazard regression analyses revealed higher OM in age group 80+ (HR = 5.653, 95% CI 2.212–14.445, p = 0), stomach location of the tumor (HR = 2.821, 95% CI 1.265–6.292, p = 0.011), regional lymph node involvement only (HR = 1.664, 95% CI 1.051–2.635, p < 0.05), regional involvement by both direct extension and lymph node involvement (HR = 1.755, 95% CI 1.047–2.943, p < 0.05) and distant metastases (HR = 4.491, 95% CI 3.115–6.476, p = 0), whereas the lowest OM was observed in patients with small intestine melanoma (HR = 0.383, 95% CI 0.173–0.846, p < 0.05). Multivariate cox proportional hazard regression analyses of CSM also revealed higher mortality of the same groups and lower CSM in small intestine and colon melanoma excluding the rectum. For model 2, considering the interaction between age and primary site on mortality, higher OM was found in age group 80+, followed by age group 40–59 then age group 60–79, regional lymph node involvement only, regional involvement by both direct extension and lymph node involvement and distant metastases. The small intestine had a lower OM. The rectum as primary location and the age range 40–59 interacted to lower the OM (HR = 0.14, 95% CI 0.02–0.89, p = 0.038). Age and primary gastric location did not interact to affect the OM. For the CSM, taking into account the interaction between age and the primary location, higher mortality was found in the same groups and the colon location. The primary colon location also interacted with the age group 40–59 to increase the CSM (HR = 1.38 × 109, 95% CI 7.80 × 107–2.45 × 1010, p = 0). Conclusions: In this United States population-based retrospective cohort study using the SEER database, we found that only the age range 40–59 interacted with the rectum and colon to lower and increase mortality respectively. Primary gastric location, which was the single most important location to affect mortality, did not interact with any age range to influence mortality. With those results, we hope to shed some light on this rare pathology with a very dismal prognosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The gastrointestinal tract is the largest organ connecting the human body and the outside world. The gastrointestinal mucosa is not only an important barrier connecting the internal body and the outside world, but also plays a key role in maintaining normal functions of the gastrointestinal tract. The injuries of gastrointestinal mucosal barrier are the common pathogenesis mechanisms in the occurrence and development of gastrointestinal diseases. However, there is still a lack of deep and systematic understanding of gastrointestinal mucosa, especially small intestinal mucosa. In clinical practice, more attentions have been paid to the role of injury factors, but the importance of mucosal protection is ignored. In order to improve the understanding of gastrointestinal mucosa protection and standardize the clinical application of gastrointestinal mucosal protective agents, the Gastrointestinal Hormone and Mucosal Barrier Group, Chinese Society of Gastroenterology, Chinese Medical Association formulated the first expert consensus on gastrointestinal mucosal protection in China, which was offi- cially published at the end of 2021. This paper interprets the background, process and main content of this consensus, so as to raise awareness among medical staff, and standardize clinical diagnosis and treatment.

Intestinal microorganisms that living in the mucosa and contents of the gastrointestinal tract of animals, have close links with their hosts over a long evolutionary history. The community structure of the fish intestinal microbiota is associated with food, living environment, and the growth stage. To screen for potential probiotics that can be used for regulating breeding behaviors, this study focused on the diversity of fish intestinal microorganisms. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sex and body weight on the intestinal microbial diversity of Gymnocypris chilianensis in the wild. The results showed that the significant high diversity and richness of intestinal microbiota were fould in heavier individuals, and males. The dominant bacterial phyla of G. chilianensis were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, and Bacteroidetes. In addition, the abundance of Firmicutes varied significantly among different body weights. The genus profile revealed that small individuals were dominated by Weissella, while females were dominated by Aeromonas, and both large individuals and males were dominated by other genera. Phylogenetic relationships and UPGMA clustering analysis showed significant differences among the groups. In general, the two main factors that have an effect on the intestinal microbiota diversity of wild G. chilianensis are sex and body weight. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Cancer‐therapy‐induced mucosal injury (CMI) is a common and deleterious complication that affects patients undergoing cancer therapies. This study was aimed at elucidating knowledge bases and predicting research trends of this field, by analyzing the bibliographic data of CMI. Methods: The bibliographic data of CMI from 2001 to 2021 were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection database in March 2022. After screening, a total of 8181 articles and reviews were included in the study. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were applied to analyze and visualize cooperation, cooccurrence, cocitation, and coupling networks. Results: A steady increase in publications and a burst of citation since 2019 were seen in the subject. Supportive Care in Cancer, International Journal of Radiation Oncology Biology Physics, Annals of Oncology, Cancer, and Radiotherapy and Oncology were the most influential journals of this field. The University of Adelaide, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center were the top three most productive institutions. ST Sonis, RV Lalla, JB Epstein, and DMK Keefe were the authors with impressive publications and citations. The intellectual base was the publication network of improved treatments based on updating knowledge of CMI. The future trends would be the pathogenesis of CMI, mechanism‐based interventions, microbiota of oral and gastrointestinal mucosa, and photobiomodulation. Conclusion: This study introduced the evolving publication network and predicted the research trends of CMI, which helped researchers to obtain detailed and reliable knowledge of the discipline, and focus on the most urgent unsolved problems in this field. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mucositis is an inflammation of the gastrointestinal mucosa that debilitate the quality of life of patients undergoing chemotherapy treatments. In this context, antineoplastic drugs, such as 5-fluorouracil, provokes ulcerations in the intestinal mucosa that lead to the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by activating the NF-κB pathway. Alternative approaches to treat the disease using probiotic strains show promising results, and thereafter, treatments that target the site of inflammation could be further explored. Recently, studies reported that the protein GDF11 has an anti-inflammatory role in several diseases, including in vitro and in vivo results in different experimental models. Hence, this study evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of GDF11 delivered by Lactococcus lactis strains NCDO2118 and MG1363 in a murine model of intestinal mucositis induced by 5-FU. Our results showed that mice treated with the recombinant lactococci strains presented improved histopathological scores of intestinal damage and a reduction of goblet cell degeneration in the mucosa. It was also observed a significant reduction of neutrophil infiltration in the tissue in comparison to positive control group. Moreover, we observed immunomodulation of inflammatory markers Nfkb1, Nlrp3, Tnf, and upregulation of Il10 in mRNA expression levels in groups treated with recombinant strains that help to partially explain the ameliorative effect in the mucosa. Therefore, the results found in this study suggest that the use of recombinant L. lactis (pExu:gdf11) could offer a potential gene therapy for intestinal mucositis induced by 5-FU. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic inflammatory disorder of the gastrointestinal tract characterized in many patients by extraintestinal manifestations. One of the most common comorbidities seen in IBD patients is a significant reduction in their bone mass. The pathogenesis of IBD is mainly attributed to the disrupted immune responses in the gastrointestinal mucosa and putative disruptions in the gut microbiomes. The excessive inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract activates different systems, such as the RANKL/RANK/OPG and the Wnt pathways linked with bone alterations in IBD patients, thereby suggesting a multifactorial etiology. The mechanism responsible for the reduced bone mineral density in IBD patients is thought to be multifactorial, and, so far, the principal pathophysiological pathway has not been well established. However, in recent years, many investigations have increased our understanding of the effect of gut inflammation on the systemic immune response and bone metabolism. Here, we review the main signaling pathways associated with altered bone metabolism in IBD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small bowel angioectasias (SBA) are vascular malformations consisting of thin-walled, dilated capillaries located in the gastrointestinal mucosa. They are responsible for 10% of all causes of gastrointestinal bleeding and 60% of small bowel bleeding pathologies. The diagnosis and management of SBA depend upon bleeding acuity, patient stability and patient characteristics. Small bowel capsule endoscopy is a relatively noninvasive diagnostic approach ideal for nonobstructed and hemodynamically stable patients. It is superior to computed tomography scans in visualizing mucosal lesions, such as angioectasias, as it provides mucosal views. Management of these lesions will depend on the patient's clinical condition and associated comorbidities, and very often consists of medical and/or endoscopic treatment delivered through small bowel enteroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]