Acute pancreatitis: pathogenesis and emerging therapies

Abstract

Acute pancreatitis is a severe inflammatory disorder with limited treatment options. Improved understanding of disease mechanisms has led to new and potential therapies. Here we summarize what we view as some of the most promising new therapies for treating acute pancreatitis, emphasizing the rationale of specific treatments based on disease mechanisms. Targeted pharmacologic interventions are highlighted. We explore potential treatment benefits and risks concerning reducing acute injury, minimizing complications, and improving long-term outcomes. Mechanisms associated with acute pancreatitis initiation, perpetuation, and reconstitution are highlighted, along with potential therapeutic targets and how these relate to new treatments.

The Pathogenesis of Pancreatitis and the Role of Autophagy

“…Most pre-clinical studies focus on the regulation of the increased intra acinar calcium, and many ongoing clinical trials try to identify new agents for the treatment of AP. Despite the fact that pharmacological inhibition of the autophagy process offers a potential therapeutic strategy for AP, ongoing clinical trials are not existent, and only pre-clinical studies offer potential future clinical applications [443,444].…”