Bile salts are essential molecules that have evolved beyond their digestive surfactant properties to act as relevant pathophysiological signalling modulators.In the gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD),recurrent expo...Bile salts are essential molecules that have evolved beyond their digestive surfactant properties to act as relevant pathophysiological signalling modulators.In the gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD),recurrent exposure of the oesophagus to harmful agents of gastric and duodenal origin,including bile salts,results in chronic inflammation and damage to the oesophageal mucosa,ultimately promoting the progression of the normal oesophageal epithelium to pre-malignant or malignant lesions,such as Barrett’s oesophagus and adenocarcinoma.Although the acidity of the refluxed material has long been considered the leading cause of pathological features in GERD,some patients do not respond adequately to conventional therapy with proton pump inhibitors,implicating non-acidic components of the gastroesophageal reflux originating in the stomach and/or duodenum.Oesophageal motor activity is an essential protection against GERD symptoms,as it directly determines the contact time of the refluxed material inside the oesophagus.Oesophageal dysmotility profiles are documented in GERD,and bile salts appear to contribute to this dysfunction.In this work,we highlight the involvement of bile salts in the pathogenesis of GERD,particularly their effect on oesophageal motility and their potential signalling pathways.展开更多
Aberrant yes-associated protein(YAP)activation is a key driver of cholangiocarcinoma(CCA)progression,contributing to enhanced invasiveness and therapy resistance.Bile acids have emerged as important regulators of the ...Aberrant yes-associated protein(YAP)activation is a key driver of cholangiocarcinoma(CCA)progression,contributing to enhanced invasiveness and therapy resistance.Bile acids have emerged as important regulators of the hippo-YAP pathway,though their precise role in CCA remains to be fully elucidated.A study by Hu et al published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,demonstrated that glycochenodeoxycholic acid and deoxycholic acid exert opposing effects on CCA pathogenesis,and that YAP targeted intervention can counteract these outcomes,suggesting potential therapeutic avenues.However,the reliance on a single cell line(HuCCT1)limits the generalizability of the findings,and the focus on two bile acids without exploring broader pathway crosstalk constrains the mechanistic insight.Further validation using diverse models and investigation into multi pathway interactions are needed to clarify the role of bile acids in CCA.This letter summarizes recent advances in understanding bile acid-regulated CCA progression via the hippo-YAP pathway,aiming to provide a reference for further mechanistic and translational exploration.展开更多
BACKGROUND Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is the first-line treatment for common bile duct(CBD)stones.However,a substantial proportion of patients fail to achieve clearance during the index proced...BACKGROUND Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is the first-line treatment for common bile duct(CBD)stones.However,a substantial proportion of patients fail to achieve clearance during the index procedure.Identifying predictors of incomplete clearance may improve procedural planning and outcomes.AIM To identify the clinical,radiological,and cholangiographic predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance during the index ERCP.METHODS This single-center retrospective study analyzed consecutive patients who underwent ERCP for clearance of CBD stones at a tertiary care center in New Delhi between January 2023 and October 2023.Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance.Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the optimal magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography-and ERCP-based predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance.RESULTS A total of 245 patients(mean age 46.2±14.8 years;75.5%women)were included in the study.Complete clearance of CBD stones was achieved in 179 patients(73.1%)at the index ERCP.Multivariate analysis revealed that independent predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance on ERCP included proximal CBD stone location[odds ratio(OR)4.44,P=0.003],stone-to-CBD diameter ratio>1(OR=5.22,P=0.033),presence of a CBD stricture(OR=5.06,P=0.049),and impacted stones(OR=9.33,P=0.003).Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that stone size(area under the curve:0.750)and stone-to-CBD diameter ratio(area under the curve:0.709)on ERCP were the strongest predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance.CONCLUSION Proximal CBD stones,stone-to-duct size mismatch,CBD strictures,and impacted stones were predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance,highlighting the need for careful planning and the use of advanced endoscopic techniques or surgery.展开更多
Background:Biliary stent placement during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is important for drainage in common bile duct(CBD)strictures,while the stent length is associated with many stent-related c...Background:Biliary stent placement during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is important for drainage in common bile duct(CBD)strictures,while the stent length is associated with many stent-related complications.We aimed to develop an artificial intelligence(AI)model for stent length selection during ERCP.Methods:Images of the patients who underwent ERCP and were diagnosed with CBD strictures were collected.Training involved identifying and delineating the duodenoscope,CBD and guidewire,calculating the pixel distance of the target guidewire and determining the required biliary stent length based on the diameter of the duodenoscope.The performance of the model,accuracy for length calculation and the assistance for endoscopists were validated using the testing set.Results:A total of 794 images from 431 patients were included and data augmentation was conducted.The mean intersection over union(mIoU)for duodenoscope,CBD and guidewire were 90.46%,84.79%and 84.64%,respectively.The accuracy in identifying the strictures was 97.58%(121/124).The accuracy for stent length calculation achieved 85.95%(104/121)with an error margin of±1 cm.The mean absolute error(MAE)and mean relative error(MRE)of the AI model was 0.81 cm and 0.13,respectively.The AI model could reduce approximately 202 mGycm2of the radiation exposure for each patient.It significantly improved both MAE and MRE for less experienced endoscopists(P=0.01 and P=0.02,respectively).Conclusions:The AI model could accurately identify duodenoscope,CBD and guidewire,enabling accurate strictures identification and stent length selection.展开更多
Background and aims:Amatoxin-containing mushroom poisoning causes fatal acute liver failure with>50%mortality despite maximal medical therapy.Interrupting the enterohepatic recirculation of amatoxins is a mechanist...Background and aims:Amatoxin-containing mushroom poisoning causes fatal acute liver failure with>50%mortality despite maximal medical therapy.Interrupting the enterohepatic recirculation of amatoxins is a mechanistically rational but unproven therapeutic strategy.This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of biliary drainage(BD)in patients with pre-acute liver failure caused by amatoxin-containing mushroom poisoning.Methods:In this prospective cohort study(ChiCTR2300073442),consecutive adults with amatoxin-induced pre-acute liver failure received standardized care(silibinin,N-acetylcysteine,dehydration).Patients undergoing percutaneous or endoscopic BD were compared to non-BD controls.The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge.Results:Nine patients were enrolled(mean age:63.3±15.6 years;44.4%female).All five patients who underwent BD(performed at a median of three days after ingestion)survived(100%),whereas only one of the four non-BD patients survived(25%;P=0.048).BD initiated a rapid biochemical recovery:within 48 h,mean alanine and aspartate transaminase levels decreased by 67.6%and 91.6%,respectively,from their peak levels(P<0.001),and the international normalized ratio decreased from 1.99 to 1.27(P=0.008).Non-survivors in the non-BD group progressed to multiorgan failure.Procedure-related complications(transient pancreatitis/amylasemia)occurred in three of the five BD patients but resolved with conservative management.Conclusions:Timely BD was associated with 100%survival after amatoxin-induced pre-acute liver failure,contrasting sharply with 75%mortality in non-BD controls.The dramatic biochemical improvement after BD supports enterohepatic recirculation interruption as a mechanistic intervention.BD represents a potentially definitive,life-saving intervention for this lethal poisoning as a preliminary finding;larger,multicenter studies are required to confirm the observed association between BD and survival.展开更多
Liver transplantation(LT)remains the definitive treatment for end-stage liver disease,yet early detection of graft dysfunction and rejection is still challenging.Conventional blood-based markers provide systemic infor...Liver transplantation(LT)remains the definitive treatment for end-stage liver disease,yet early detection of graft dysfunction and rejection is still challenging.Conventional blood-based markers provide systemic information but lack hepatic specificity.Bile,directly secreted by hepatocytes and cholangiocytes,represents an organ-specific biofluid with diagnostic potential for assessing graft viability and early complications.This minireview examined the biochemical,immunological,and molecular features of bile as biomarkers in LT,focusing on pH,bicarbonate,glucose,lactate,bile acids,and proteomic/lipidomic profiles in relation to ischemia-reperfusion injury,early allograft dysfunction,and ischemic-type biliary lesions.The integration of bile-based parameters into ex situ perfusion and post-transplant monitoring,supported by omics technologies and predictive modeling,was also discussed.Building on these insights,we designed a single-center prospective study(ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03882164)evaluating biliary tacrolimus(TACbile)as a predictor of acute rejection after LT.Paired daily TACbile and plasma tacrolimus levels are measured in recipients with Kehr T-tubes to define a blood-bile ratio of tacrolimus.The primary endpoint was the predictive accuracy of blood-bile ratio of tacrolimus for biopsy-proven rejection;secondary outcomes include associations with early allograft dysfunction.Bile-based biomarkers,particularly TACbile,may revolutionize graft monitoring and personalize immunological surveillance after LT.展开更多
Background:This study aimed to comprehensively elucidate the hepatotoxic effects of Dioscorea bulbifera L.(DBL)in mice and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:Mice were administered different doses ...Background:This study aimed to comprehensively elucidate the hepatotoxic effects of Dioscorea bulbifera L.(DBL)in mice and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:Mice were administered different doses of DBL via intragastric gavage for 21 days.Organ indices of multiple organs were then measured,and histopathological changes were systematically evaluated.Particular attention was paid to biochemical markers and hepatic histopathological alterations associated with liver injury.Subsequently,the composition of the gut microbiota in colonic contents was analyzed using 16S rDNA sequencing,and the levels of short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs)were determined by gas chromatography(GC).Furthermore,protein expression levels of YinYang 1(YY1),Farnesoid X Receptor(FXR),Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2),and bile acids(BAs)-related proteins in the liver were assessed by Western blot analysis.Results:Our findings revealed that DBL induced varying degrees of multi-organ toxicity in mice,with the most pronounced hepatotoxicity observed.Liver injury was induced in a dose-dependent manner,accompanied by increased hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress,as well as enhanced hepatocyte apoptosis.Furthermore,DBL may modulate the YY1-FXR/Nrf2 signaling pathway,leading to upregulation of BAs-related proteins such as cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase(CYP7A1),while downregulating other BAs-related proteins,including sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide(NTCP),bile salt export pump(BSEP),multidrug resistance protein 2(MRP2),and P-glycoprotein(P-gp).These changes promoted excessive BAs synthesis and impaired the excretion and reabsorption of BAs,ultimately disturbing BAs homeostasis.Additionally,DBL induces gut microbiota dysbiosis and reduces SCFAs production,leading to intestinal damage and disruption of intestinal barrier integrity.Conclusion:DBL-induced hepatotoxicity may be associated with altered expression of the YY1-FXR/Nrf2 signaling pathway and BAs–related proteins,accompanied by increased hepatic BAs accumulation and gut microbiota dysbiosis.展开更多
BACKGROUND Liver transplantation(LT)remains the definitive treatment for patients with acute and chronic end-stage liver disease,significantly improving survival and quality of life.Conventional liver function tests p...BACKGROUND Liver transplantation(LT)remains the definitive treatment for patients with acute and chronic end-stage liver disease,significantly improving survival and quality of life.Conventional liver function tests post LT,while routinely used,often lack sensitivity and may not detect graft injury promptly.Serum bile acids(SBAs),known for their role in hepatic function and enterohepatic circulation,have emerged as promising biomarkers due to their sensitivity to hepatocellular injury and cholestasis.This systematic review evaluates the prognostic value of SBA levels following LT.AIM To assess correlations between SBA concentrations and clinical outcomes,including graft function and rejection episodes.METHODS Relevant studies analyzing SBA levels after LT were systematically reviewed.Data synthesis focused on the association between bile acid levels and transplant outcomes.RESULTS Elevated SBA levels were significantly associated with early graft dysfunction and acute rejection.Pooled analysis indicated that patients with SBA levels exceeding study-specific thresholds had a 2.5-fold increased risk of acute rejection(95%CI:1.8-3.4,P<0.001).Diagnostic accuracy analysis showed that SBA levels had a sensitivity of 82%and specificity of 76%for predicting graft dysfunction within the first month after transplantation.Subgroup analyses highlighted conjugated bile acids as particularly predictive,with an odds ratio of 3.1(95%CI:2.0-4.8,P<0.0001)for adverse outcomes.CONCLUSION SBA levels demonstrate strong potential as a non-invasive early biomarker for post-liver transplant prognosis,facilitating timely clinical interventions.However,heterogeneity in assay techniques and cutoff values across studies underscores the need for standardized measurement protocols.Incorporating SBA monitoring into routine post-transplant surveillance may enhance prognostic precision and improve patient management strategies.展开更多
BACKGROUND Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy(ESWL)and laser lithotripsy(LL)are established alternatives for the management of difficult common bile duct(CBD)stones.However,there is limited evidence regarding the e...BACKGROUND Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy(ESWL)and laser lithotripsy(LL)are established alternatives for the management of difficult common bile duct(CBD)stones.However,there is limited evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of the latest-generation Dornier Delta Ⅲ lithotripter.In particular,evidence on the clinical performance of the Dornier Delta Ⅲ lithotripter is scarce.AIM To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of ESWL performed with the Dornier Delta Ⅲ and of LL using a single-operator cholangioscope with specific focus on stone clearance rates,number of treatment sessions,and procedurerelated adverse events in a large patient cohort.METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database at AIG Hospitals,Hyderabad,covering the period from January 2019 to December 2022.A total of 458 patients with difficult bile duct stones underwent either ESWL or LL based on clinical discretion.ESWL was performed using the Dornier Delta III lithotripter,whereas LL was carried out with a singleoperator cholangioscope in combination with an yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser.RESULTS The 387 patients with difficult bile duct stones(mean age 53.8±15.7 years,58.7% male)underwent ESWL.A single CBD stone was noted in 46.8% of patients while 53.2% patients had multiple stones.Complete duct clearance was achieved in 95.1% of patients,with 68.7% requiring two or more ESWL sessions.Adverse events included cholangitis in 3 patients and post-sphincterotomy bleeding in 4 patients;All were managed conservatively.Seventyone patients(mean age 55±15.4 years,64.8%male)underwent LL.Complete duct clearance was achieved in 97.2% of patients with single-session clearance in 58(81.7%)patients.The remaining 18.3% of patients required two or three sessions for fragmented stone removal.Adverse events included cholangitis in 2 patients and mild pancreatitis in 1 patient;all were managed conservatively.Patients with incomplete clearance were referred for surgery.There was no significant difference in efficacy between ESWL and LL(95.1%vs 97.2%,P=0.4).CONCLUSION ESWL using the latest generation lithotripter and LL provide equally effective and safe alternatives for managing difficult CBD stones,minimizing the need for surgery.展开更多
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide,spanning a spectrum from simple steatosis to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis,fibros...Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide,spanning a spectrum from simple steatosis to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis,fibrosis,cirrhosis,and hepatocellular carcinoma.In addition to liver-related morbidity,MASLD is closely associated with systemic metabolic dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk,emphasizing the need for mechanism-based therapies.Bile acids are now recognized as key metabolic and immunological signaling molecules acting through receptors such as the farnesoid X receptor(FXR)and the G proteincoupled bile acid receptor Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5.This narrative review summarizes current evidence on bile acid receptor signaling in MASLD,focusing on receptor biology,molecular mechanisms,and emerging therapeutic strategies.We discuss how changes in bile acid composition,receptor responsiveness,and downstream signaling contribute to metabolic dysregulation,inflammation,and fibrogenesis,while acknowledging inter-individual heterogeneity and limited stage-specific human data.Particular attention is given to FXR and Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5 signaling,their interaction with metabolic and inflammatory pathways,and modulation by gut microbiota-derived bile acid transformations.We also review clinical and translational data on bile acid-targeted therapies,including FXR agonists and norursodeoxycholic acid,highlighting therapeutic promise alongside challenges related to lipid effects,long-term safety,and variable efficacy.Overall,bile acid signaling represents a promising yet complex therapeutic axis in MASLD.展开更多
This letter commends on the study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology by Xu et al,which elucidated the mechanism by which distal bowel resection with terminal ileum preservation(DBRPI)improves hepatic gluco...This letter commends on the study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology by Xu et al,which elucidated the mechanism by which distal bowel resection with terminal ileum preservation(DBRPI)improves hepatic gluconeogenesis via the Prevotellaceae NK3B31_group/7-ketolithocholic acid(7-KLCA)/farnesoid X receptor(FXR)axis.Using multiomics and functional assays,Xu et al identified this microbial–bile acid(BA)axis as central to the metabolic benefits of DBRPI,linking microbial enrichment(e.g.,Prevotellaceae NK3B31_group)to increased 7-KLCA levels and FXR activation,thereby suppressing gluconeogenic gene expression.We highlight the novelty of this work in its focus on taxon-specific microbial and BA dynamics,which advances the understanding of postoperative glucose regulation.Additionally,we note its translational potential—targeting this axis via probiotics or 7-KLCA analogs—and raise several open questions,including causal validation of the microbial taxon,serum 7-KLCA dynamics,and glucagon-likepeptide-1/FXR interplay.Overall,this study bridges gut microbiota and BA crosstalk,offering actionable insights for the treatment of metabolic disease.展开更多
Hasan et al presented compelling cross-sectional evidence that Bangladeshi infants aged 6-9 months with environmental enteric dysfunction(EED)exhibit an age-dependent defect in primary bile acid conjugation,concurrent...Hasan et al presented compelling cross-sectional evidence that Bangladeshi infants aged 6-9 months with environmental enteric dysfunction(EED)exhibit an age-dependent defect in primary bile acid conjugation,concurrent elevations in unconjugated and sulfated primary bile acids,reduced primary conjugated bile acids,and associations between bile acid profiles,small intestinal bacterial overgrowth,enteric inflammation,and impaired linear growth.Their findings have raised important mechanistic and translational questions:Was delayed maturation of bile acid amidation a driver of malabsorption and growth faltering in EED,or a downstream marker of intestinal injury and microbiome immaturity?Did altered bile acid pools contribute to intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction via signaling pathways(farnesoid X receptor/Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5)or via nutrient malabsorption,like lipid and fat-soluble vitamins?Could targeted bile acid replacement,like glycocholic acid or microbiomedirected interventions,offer therapeutic benefit in selected infants?This Letter highlights these key considerations,outlines testable hypotheses and practical next steps for the field,and calls for coordinated longitudinal,mechanistic,and interventional studies to clarify causality and translate these observations into interventions that might mitigate EED-associated stunting.展开更多
BACKGROUND Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct(IPNB)is a rare disease of the bile duct.It is characterized by a papillary growth within the bile duct lumen.IPNB was formally recognized as a distinct diseas...BACKGROUND Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct(IPNB)is a rare disease of the bile duct.It is characterized by a papillary growth within the bile duct lumen.IPNB was formally recognized as a distinct disease entity in 2010,and its etiology remains unknown.IPNB is a complex disease and generally requires multidisciplinary investigation.CASE SUMMARY We report the case of a 67-year-old patient who was asymptomatic but diagnosed with IPNB during treatment of early gastric cancer due to an obvious elevation ofγ-glutamyl transpeptidase.Computed tomography,magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography,endoscopic ultrasonography,and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with EyeMaxÔdirect visualization system were crucial for the diagnosis of IPNB.Hepatic surgery was performed,and the patient was discharged without complications.CONCLUSION IPNB is a complicated disease and difficult to diagnose,especially when the patient is asymptomatic.Aggressive surgical resection can achieve adequate clinical outcomes,particularly when IPNB is diagnosed in early stages.展开更多
BACKGROUND Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is the standard approach for the management of common bile duct(CBD)stones;however,it is not universally available.In hospitals lacking on-site ERCP,alter...BACKGROUND Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is the standard approach for the management of common bile duct(CBD)stones;however,it is not universally available.In hospitals lacking on-site ERCP,alternative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are required,but the scope and quality of the sup-porting evidence remain unclear.AIM To map and synthesize the available literature on non-ERCP diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for CBD stones.METHODS A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines.PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus were searched for studies published between 2020 and 2025 on non-ERCP strategies for CBD stones.Eligible studies included observational and comparative designs.Data were extracted and analyzed descriptively,focusing on diagnostic modalities,surgical strategies,and reported outcomes.RESULTS Seven studies met the inclusion criteria,predominantly retrospective and singlecenter in design.Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography,endoscopic ultrasound,and intraoperative imaging were the most frequently reported diagnostic modalities.Laparoscopic CBD exploration,using transcystic or transductal approaches,was the main therapeutic strategy.Outcomes varied across studies and were closely related to institutional expertise and resource availability.CONCLUSION The available evidence is limited and heterogeneous.Non-ERCP strategies are feasible in selected settings,but current data do not support broad generalization.展开更多
BACKGROUND Bile spillage occurs more frequently in patients with incidental gallbladder carcinoma(iGBC)and may be associated with poor survival due to presumed high risk of peritoneal seeding.AIM To investigate the im...BACKGROUND Bile spillage occurs more frequently in patients with incidental gallbladder carcinoma(iGBC)and may be associated with poor survival due to presumed high risk of peritoneal seeding.AIM To investigate the impact of bile spillage during primary surgery on the survival of patients with iGBC.METHODS Medical records of patients with iGBC diagnosed between 2000 and 2019 in 27 Dutch secondary centers and 5 tertiary centers were retrospectively reviewed.Patient medical records were assessed.Predictors for overall survival(OS)were determined using multivariable Cox regression.RESULTS Of the 346 included patients with iGBC,138(39.9%)had bile spillage,which was associated with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists classification(P=0.020),cholecystitis(P<0.001),higher tumor stage(P=0.005),and non-radical resection(P<0.001).Bile spillage was associated with poor OS[hazard ratio=1.97,95%confidence interval(CI):1.48-2.63,P<0.001]with a median OS of 12 months(95%CI:7-18 months)vs 34 months(95%CI:14-55 months,P<0.001).In multivariable analysis,spillage was not an independent prognostic factor for survival(hazard ratio=1.21,95%CI:0.84-1.74,P=0.313).CONCLUSION Although bile spillage correlates with prognostic factors,it lacks independent prognostic significance for survival.Patients with an indication for additional treatment should be promptly referred to a specialized hepatopancreatobiliary center,irrespective of whether bile spillage has occurred.展开更多
Bile salt hydrolase(BSH),a gatekeeper enzyme in bile acid metabolism,regulates the host's bile acid profile and is closely associated with various metabolic diseases.However,suitable methods for measuring its acti...Bile salt hydrolase(BSH),a gatekeeper enzyme in bile acid metabolism,regulates the host's bile acid profile and is closely associated with various metabolic diseases.However,suitable methods for measuring its activity in living systems remain scarce.Herein,a novel far-red fluorogenic substrate(CA-ABEI)for BSH was designed and developed by conjugating cholic acid with an aminocoumarin fluorophore.Under physiological conditions,CA-ABEI can be rapidly hydrolyzed by BSH from various bacterial sources to form ABEI,triggering strong fluorescence enhancement at 620 nm.Specifically activated by BSH,CA-ABEI enables accurate detection of BSH activity in biospecimens,including pure enzymes,bacteria and intact fecal slurries,and the first bioimaging of BSH activity in both BSH-expressing engineered Escherichia coli and natural intestinal microbiota.Moreover,a high-throughput screening platform was established using CA-ABEI,enabling the evaluation of BSH inhibitory effects from 96 herbal extracts.Pu-erh tea emerged as a potent BSH inhibitor and its active components were subsequently characterized,aiding the discovery of novel BSH inhibitors.Collectively,CA-ABEI proved to be a powerful tool for monitoring BSH activity in complex biological systems with value for exploring physiological functions and rapid screening of inhibitors.展开更多
The application of bile acids(BA)in aquafeeds offers potential to mitigate hepatic lipid deposition caused by excessive diets.This study evaluated the effects of different quantities of dietary BA supplementation(0,50...The application of bile acids(BA)in aquafeeds offers potential to mitigate hepatic lipid deposition caused by excessive diets.This study evaluated the effects of different quantities of dietary BA supplementation(0,500,1000,1500 mg/kg)on spotted sea bass(Lateolabrax maculatus).The results showed that 500-1000 mg/kg BA supplementation enhanced growth performance(weight gain,feed conversion ratio),and reduced serum lipids(TG,TC)and liver injury markers(ALT,AST)in Lateolabrax maculatus.Hepatic lipid vacuolization was alleviated at optimal doses(500-1000 mg/kg),while excessive BA(1500 mg/kg)induced hepatocyte swelling.RNA-seq results showed that a total of 5124 differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were enriched in apelin,FoxO,PPAR signaling pathways and in fatty acid metabolism.Weighted gene co-expression analysis identified hub genes SLC25A5 and UCP1 linked to mitochondrial function and lipid oxidation.Moreover,at the transcriptional regulatory level,differential alternative splicing(DAS)analysis further inferred that bile acids could effectively alleviate fat accumulation in the liver through the aforementioned pathways.These findings elucidate BAs'role in mitigating hepatic lipid accumulation via transcription and splicing-mediated metabolic modulation and provide new insight to the balances between BA supplementation and liver health of spotted sea bass.展开更多
Artemisia argyi(A.argyi)is a Chinese herbal medicine with reported anti-inflammatory effects.In this study,the A.argyi was extracted with water and ethanol,and the concentrations of 35 flavonoids in A.argyi water extr...Artemisia argyi(A.argyi)is a Chinese herbal medicine with reported anti-inflammatory effects.In this study,the A.argyi was extracted with water and ethanol,and the concentrations of 35 flavonoids in A.argyi water extract(WE)and ethanol extract(EE)were measured via targeted metabolomics.The antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities of both WE and EE were firstly explored in vitro via chemical assays and cellular experiment,respectively.Both WE and EE showed significant 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH),2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)(ABTS),·OH,and O2·radical scavenging ability in a dose-dependent manner,and reduced the levels of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and interleukin-22(IL-22)in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)induced RAW264.7 cell model.In addition,the in vivo anti-colitis activity of both extracts was investigated in dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced colitis mice,and the underlying mechanisms were elucidated by 16S r DNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics.We found that both WE and EE relieved colitis in mice,characterized by decreased disease activity index,increased colon length,improved pathological changes in colon tissue,while EE showed better anti-colitis activity.In addition,both 16S r DNA sequencing and targeted bile acids metabolomics indicated EE modulated gut microbiota and specifically increased the abundance of lithocholic acid(LCA),which might contribute to intestinal barrier function improvement via up-regulating the expression of colonic farnesoid X receptor(FXR).In summary,this study identified the anti-colitis mechanism of A.argyi EE by modulating gut microbiota,facilitating the production of LCA,activating FXR and improving intestinal barrier function.展开更多
Despite the numerous benefits associated with degossypolized cottonseed oil(DCSO),complete substitution of fish oil(FO)with DCSO in aquafeeds has been demonstrated to have deleterious effects on fish growth and health...Despite the numerous benefits associated with degossypolized cottonseed oil(DCSO),complete substitution of fish oil(FO)with DCSO in aquafeeds has been demonstrated to have deleterious effects on fish growth and health.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of incorporating bile acid(BA)into the diets of juvenile large yellow croaker(Larimichthys crocea)with DCSO substitution.The experiment was conducted for ten weeks with a negative control group(FO,100%fish oil),a positive control group(DCSO100,100%DCSO),and two treatment groups,BA600(600 mg/kg BA+DCSO100)and BA1200(1200 mg/kg BA+DCSO100).The initial body weights of these fish were 7.55 g±0.40 g.The results demonstrated that incorporating BA into DCSO100 feed could substantially enhance fish growth and feed efficiency.Furthermore,BA inclusion influenced tissue fatty acid composition by reducing saturated fatty acids(SFAs)and increasing polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFAs),particularly n-3 fatty acids,in both liver and muscle tissues.The BA600 diet enhanced the activity ofα-amylase,lipase,and trypsin in the intestine,suggesting improved nutrient digestibility.Additionally,BA600 modulated hepatic lipid metabolism,as evidenced by decreased triglyceride(TG),total cholesterol(TC),and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)levels,as well as upregulated expressions of sterol regulatory elementbinding protein 1(srebp-1),fatty acid synthase(fas),and acyl-CoA oxidase(aco).BA600 also exhibited immunomodulatory effects,downregulating interleukin 6(il-6),interleukin 1 Beta(il-1β),interferon Gamma(ifnγ),while upregulating interleukin 10(il-10)and arginase 1(arg-1).These findings demonstrate that dietary BA supplementation at 600 mg/kg effectively reduce the adverse effects of complete FO substitution with DCSO,thus represents a promising functional additive for optimizing DCSO-based aquafeeds in juvenile L.crocea aquaculture.展开更多
The prognosis for patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma with bile duct tumor thrombus(HCCBDTT)remains dismal,and there are presently no universally accepted treatment guidelines to address this complex cond...The prognosis for patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma with bile duct tumor thrombus(HCCBDTT)remains dismal,and there are presently no universally accepted treatment guidelines to address this complex condition.Long-term outcomes of liver transplantation(LT)for HCC-BDTT patients are unclear,and whether LT is a proper therapeutic option for HCC-BDTT patients remains to be determined.Therefore,we design a clinical trial to evaluate whether LT can improve recurrence-free survival(RFS)and overall survival(OS)in HCC-BDTT patients.This is an open-labeled,single-arm,prospective,multicenter and real-world study aiming to assess the survival outcomes of HCC-BDTT patients in LT.Patients will be enrolled based on histological confirmation of HCC with BDTT.The study is planned to take 4 years,2 years for enrollment and 2 years for follow-up.We anticipate that LT confers beneficial survival outcomes for HCC-BDTT patients,specifically in terms of the pivotal parameters,such as RFS and quality of life.Upon successful completion of the trial,we will extend our monitoring over a longer follow-up time to accurately estimate important indicators such as OS.We expect that this study provides substantial evidence to refine treatment guidelines through thorough data analysis,ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes and advancing our understanding of the disease.展开更多
摘要Bile salts are essential molecules that have evolved beyond their digestive surfactant properties to act as relevant pathophysiological signalling modulators.In the gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD),recurrent exposure of the oesophagus to harmful agents of gastric and duodenal origin,including bile salts,results in chronic inflammation and damage to the oesophageal mucosa,ultimately promoting the progression of the normal oesophageal epithelium to pre-malignant or malignant lesions,such as Barrett’s oesophagus and adenocarcinoma.Although the acidity of the refluxed material has long been considered the leading cause of pathological features in GERD,some patients do not respond adequately to conventional therapy with proton pump inhibitors,implicating non-acidic components of the gastroesophageal reflux originating in the stomach and/or duodenum.Oesophageal motor activity is an essential protection against GERD symptoms,as it directly determines the contact time of the refluxed material inside the oesophagus.Oesophageal dysmotility profiles are documented in GERD,and bile salts appear to contribute to this dysfunction.In this work,we highlight the involvement of bile salts in the pathogenesis of GERD,particularly their effect on oesophageal motility and their potential signalling pathways.
基金Supported by National Key Research and Development Program of China,No.2023YFC2507904Innovation Group Project of Hubei Province,No.2023AFA026Key Cultivation Project of Hubei Province for Science and Technology,No.2024DJA037.
摘要Aberrant yes-associated protein(YAP)activation is a key driver of cholangiocarcinoma(CCA)progression,contributing to enhanced invasiveness and therapy resistance.Bile acids have emerged as important regulators of the hippo-YAP pathway,though their precise role in CCA remains to be fully elucidated.A study by Hu et al published in the World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology,demonstrated that glycochenodeoxycholic acid and deoxycholic acid exert opposing effects on CCA pathogenesis,and that YAP targeted intervention can counteract these outcomes,suggesting potential therapeutic avenues.However,the reliance on a single cell line(HuCCT1)limits the generalizability of the findings,and the focus on two bile acids without exploring broader pathway crosstalk constrains the mechanistic insight.Further validation using diverse models and investigation into multi pathway interactions are needed to clarify the role of bile acids in CCA.This letter summarizes recent advances in understanding bile acid-regulated CCA progression via the hippo-YAP pathway,aiming to provide a reference for further mechanistic and translational exploration.
基金the Medical Ethics Committee of MAMC,approval No.F.1/IEC/MAMC/117/05/2025/No.493.
摘要BACKGROUND Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is the first-line treatment for common bile duct(CBD)stones.However,a substantial proportion of patients fail to achieve clearance during the index procedure.Identifying predictors of incomplete clearance may improve procedural planning and outcomes.AIM To identify the clinical,radiological,and cholangiographic predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance during the index ERCP.METHODS This single-center retrospective study analyzed consecutive patients who underwent ERCP for clearance of CBD stones at a tertiary care center in New Delhi between January 2023 and October 2023.Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance.Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the optimal magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography-and ERCP-based predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance.RESULTS A total of 245 patients(mean age 46.2±14.8 years;75.5%women)were included in the study.Complete clearance of CBD stones was achieved in 179 patients(73.1%)at the index ERCP.Multivariate analysis revealed that independent predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance on ERCP included proximal CBD stone location[odds ratio(OR)4.44,P=0.003],stone-to-CBD diameter ratio>1(OR=5.22,P=0.033),presence of a CBD stricture(OR=5.06,P=0.049),and impacted stones(OR=9.33,P=0.003).Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis demonstrated that stone size(area under the curve:0.750)and stone-to-CBD diameter ratio(area under the curve:0.709)on ERCP were the strongest predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance.CONCLUSION Proximal CBD stones,stone-to-duct size mismatch,CBD strictures,and impacted stones were predictors of incomplete CBD stone clearance,highlighting the need for careful planning and the use of advanced endoscopic techniques or surgery.
基金supported by grants from the Taishan Scholars Program of Shandong Province(tsqn202312333)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82470695).
摘要Background:Biliary stent placement during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is important for drainage in common bile duct(CBD)strictures,while the stent length is associated with many stent-related complications.We aimed to develop an artificial intelligence(AI)model for stent length selection during ERCP.Methods:Images of the patients who underwent ERCP and were diagnosed with CBD strictures were collected.Training involved identifying and delineating the duodenoscope,CBD and guidewire,calculating the pixel distance of the target guidewire and determining the required biliary stent length based on the diameter of the duodenoscope.The performance of the model,accuracy for length calculation and the assistance for endoscopists were validated using the testing set.Results:A total of 794 images from 431 patients were included and data augmentation was conducted.The mean intersection over union(mIoU)for duodenoscope,CBD and guidewire were 90.46%,84.79%and 84.64%,respectively.The accuracy in identifying the strictures was 97.58%(121/124).The accuracy for stent length calculation achieved 85.95%(104/121)with an error margin of±1 cm.The mean absolute error(MAE)and mean relative error(MRE)of the AI model was 0.81 cm and 0.13,respectively.The AI model could reduce approximately 202 mGycm2of the radiation exposure for each patient.It significantly improved both MAE and MRE for less experienced endoscopists(P=0.01 and P=0.02,respectively).Conclusions:The AI model could accurately identify duodenoscope,CBD and guidewire,enabling accurate strictures identification and stent length selection.
基金supported by the Yunnan Key Laboratory of Intestinal Microbiota Transplantation Technological Innovation and Clinical Application and the Yunnan Revitalization Talent Support Program(XDYC-YLXZ-2023-0021).
摘要Background and aims:Amatoxin-containing mushroom poisoning causes fatal acute liver failure with>50%mortality despite maximal medical therapy.Interrupting the enterohepatic recirculation of amatoxins is a mechanistically rational but unproven therapeutic strategy.This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of biliary drainage(BD)in patients with pre-acute liver failure caused by amatoxin-containing mushroom poisoning.Methods:In this prospective cohort study(ChiCTR2300073442),consecutive adults with amatoxin-induced pre-acute liver failure received standardized care(silibinin,N-acetylcysteine,dehydration).Patients undergoing percutaneous or endoscopic BD were compared to non-BD controls.The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge.Results:Nine patients were enrolled(mean age:63.3±15.6 years;44.4%female).All five patients who underwent BD(performed at a median of three days after ingestion)survived(100%),whereas only one of the four non-BD patients survived(25%;P=0.048).BD initiated a rapid biochemical recovery:within 48 h,mean alanine and aspartate transaminase levels decreased by 67.6%and 91.6%,respectively,from their peak levels(P<0.001),and the international normalized ratio decreased from 1.99 to 1.27(P=0.008).Non-survivors in the non-BD group progressed to multiorgan failure.Procedure-related complications(transient pancreatitis/amylasemia)occurred in three of the five BD patients but resolved with conservative management.Conclusions:Timely BD was associated with 100%survival after amatoxin-induced pre-acute liver failure,contrasting sharply with 75%mortality in non-BD controls.The dramatic biochemical improvement after BD supports enterohepatic recirculation interruption as a mechanistic intervention.BD represents a potentially definitive,life-saving intervention for this lethal poisoning as a preliminary finding;larger,multicenter studies are required to confirm the observed association between BD and survival.
摘要Liver transplantation(LT)remains the definitive treatment for end-stage liver disease,yet early detection of graft dysfunction and rejection is still challenging.Conventional blood-based markers provide systemic information but lack hepatic specificity.Bile,directly secreted by hepatocytes and cholangiocytes,represents an organ-specific biofluid with diagnostic potential for assessing graft viability and early complications.This minireview examined the biochemical,immunological,and molecular features of bile as biomarkers in LT,focusing on pH,bicarbonate,glucose,lactate,bile acids,and proteomic/lipidomic profiles in relation to ischemia-reperfusion injury,early allograft dysfunction,and ischemic-type biliary lesions.The integration of bile-based parameters into ex situ perfusion and post-transplant monitoring,supported by omics technologies and predictive modeling,was also discussed.Building on these insights,we designed a single-center prospective study(ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT03882164)evaluating biliary tacrolimus(TACbile)as a predictor of acute rejection after LT.Paired daily TACbile and plasma tacrolimus levels are measured in recipients with Kehr T-tubes to define a blood-bile ratio of tacrolimus.The primary endpoint was the predictive accuracy of blood-bile ratio of tacrolimus for biopsy-proven rejection;secondary outcomes include associations with early allograft dysfunction.Bile-based biomarkers,particularly TACbile,may revolutionize graft monitoring and personalize immunological surveillance after LT.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82204790)Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine Science and Technology Program(2024-LJRC-04)+1 种基金Shaanxi Province Natural Science Foundation(2024JC-YBMS-759)Qinchuangyuan TCM Industry Innovation Project(L2024-QCY-ZYYJJQ-X29).
摘要Background:This study aimed to comprehensively elucidate the hepatotoxic effects of Dioscorea bulbifera L.(DBL)in mice and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms.Methods:Mice were administered different doses of DBL via intragastric gavage for 21 days.Organ indices of multiple organs were then measured,and histopathological changes were systematically evaluated.Particular attention was paid to biochemical markers and hepatic histopathological alterations associated with liver injury.Subsequently,the composition of the gut microbiota in colonic contents was analyzed using 16S rDNA sequencing,and the levels of short-chain fatty acids(SCFAs)were determined by gas chromatography(GC).Furthermore,protein expression levels of YinYang 1(YY1),Farnesoid X Receptor(FXR),Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2),and bile acids(BAs)-related proteins in the liver were assessed by Western blot analysis.Results:Our findings revealed that DBL induced varying degrees of multi-organ toxicity in mice,with the most pronounced hepatotoxicity observed.Liver injury was induced in a dose-dependent manner,accompanied by increased hepatic inflammation and oxidative stress,as well as enhanced hepatocyte apoptosis.Furthermore,DBL may modulate the YY1-FXR/Nrf2 signaling pathway,leading to upregulation of BAs-related proteins such as cholesterol 7α-hydroxylase(CYP7A1),while downregulating other BAs-related proteins,including sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide(NTCP),bile salt export pump(BSEP),multidrug resistance protein 2(MRP2),and P-glycoprotein(P-gp).These changes promoted excessive BAs synthesis and impaired the excretion and reabsorption of BAs,ultimately disturbing BAs homeostasis.Additionally,DBL induces gut microbiota dysbiosis and reduces SCFAs production,leading to intestinal damage and disruption of intestinal barrier integrity.Conclusion:DBL-induced hepatotoxicity may be associated with altered expression of the YY1-FXR/Nrf2 signaling pathway and BAs–related proteins,accompanied by increased hepatic BAs accumulation and gut microbiota dysbiosis.
摘要BACKGROUND Liver transplantation(LT)remains the definitive treatment for patients with acute and chronic end-stage liver disease,significantly improving survival and quality of life.Conventional liver function tests post LT,while routinely used,often lack sensitivity and may not detect graft injury promptly.Serum bile acids(SBAs),known for their role in hepatic function and enterohepatic circulation,have emerged as promising biomarkers due to their sensitivity to hepatocellular injury and cholestasis.This systematic review evaluates the prognostic value of SBA levels following LT.AIM To assess correlations between SBA concentrations and clinical outcomes,including graft function and rejection episodes.METHODS Relevant studies analyzing SBA levels after LT were systematically reviewed.Data synthesis focused on the association between bile acid levels and transplant outcomes.RESULTS Elevated SBA levels were significantly associated with early graft dysfunction and acute rejection.Pooled analysis indicated that patients with SBA levels exceeding study-specific thresholds had a 2.5-fold increased risk of acute rejection(95%CI:1.8-3.4,P<0.001).Diagnostic accuracy analysis showed that SBA levels had a sensitivity of 82%and specificity of 76%for predicting graft dysfunction within the first month after transplantation.Subgroup analyses highlighted conjugated bile acids as particularly predictive,with an odds ratio of 3.1(95%CI:2.0-4.8,P<0.0001)for adverse outcomes.CONCLUSION SBA levels demonstrate strong potential as a non-invasive early biomarker for post-liver transplant prognosis,facilitating timely clinical interventions.However,heterogeneity in assay techniques and cutoff values across studies underscores the need for standardized measurement protocols.Incorporating SBA monitoring into routine post-transplant surveillance may enhance prognostic precision and improve patient management strategies.
摘要BACKGROUND Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy(ESWL)and laser lithotripsy(LL)are established alternatives for the management of difficult common bile duct(CBD)stones.However,there is limited evidence regarding the efficacy and safety of the latest-generation Dornier Delta Ⅲ lithotripter.In particular,evidence on the clinical performance of the Dornier Delta Ⅲ lithotripter is scarce.AIM To evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of ESWL performed with the Dornier Delta Ⅲ and of LL using a single-operator cholangioscope with specific focus on stone clearance rates,number of treatment sessions,and procedurerelated adverse events in a large patient cohort.METHODS We conducted a retrospective analysis of a prospectively maintained database at AIG Hospitals,Hyderabad,covering the period from January 2019 to December 2022.A total of 458 patients with difficult bile duct stones underwent either ESWL or LL based on clinical discretion.ESWL was performed using the Dornier Delta III lithotripter,whereas LL was carried out with a singleoperator cholangioscope in combination with an yttrium-aluminum-garnet laser.RESULTS The 387 patients with difficult bile duct stones(mean age 53.8±15.7 years,58.7% male)underwent ESWL.A single CBD stone was noted in 46.8% of patients while 53.2% patients had multiple stones.Complete duct clearance was achieved in 95.1% of patients,with 68.7% requiring two or more ESWL sessions.Adverse events included cholangitis in 3 patients and post-sphincterotomy bleeding in 4 patients;All were managed conservatively.Seventyone patients(mean age 55±15.4 years,64.8%male)underwent LL.Complete duct clearance was achieved in 97.2% of patients with single-session clearance in 58(81.7%)patients.The remaining 18.3% of patients required two or three sessions for fragmented stone removal.Adverse events included cholangitis in 2 patients and mild pancreatitis in 1 patient;all were managed conservatively.Patients with incomplete clearance were referred for surgery.There was no significant difference in efficacy between ESWL and LL(95.1%vs 97.2%,P=0.4).CONCLUSION ESWL using the latest generation lithotripter and LL provide equally effective and safe alternatives for managing difficult CBD stones,minimizing the need for surgery.
摘要Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease(MASLD)is the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide,spanning a spectrum from simple steatosis to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis,fibrosis,cirrhosis,and hepatocellular carcinoma.In addition to liver-related morbidity,MASLD is closely associated with systemic metabolic dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk,emphasizing the need for mechanism-based therapies.Bile acids are now recognized as key metabolic and immunological signaling molecules acting through receptors such as the farnesoid X receptor(FXR)and the G proteincoupled bile acid receptor Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5.This narrative review summarizes current evidence on bile acid receptor signaling in MASLD,focusing on receptor biology,molecular mechanisms,and emerging therapeutic strategies.We discuss how changes in bile acid composition,receptor responsiveness,and downstream signaling contribute to metabolic dysregulation,inflammation,and fibrogenesis,while acknowledging inter-individual heterogeneity and limited stage-specific human data.Particular attention is given to FXR and Takeda G-protein-coupled receptor 5 signaling,their interaction with metabolic and inflammatory pathways,and modulation by gut microbiota-derived bile acid transformations.We also review clinical and translational data on bile acid-targeted therapies,including FXR agonists and norursodeoxycholic acid,highlighting therapeutic promise alongside challenges related to lipid effects,long-term safety,and variable efficacy.Overall,bile acid signaling represents a promising yet complex therapeutic axis in MASLD.
基金Supported by the Fujian Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Joint Fund Project(No.2024Y9555)the Fujian Provincial Natural Science Foundation Project(No.2025J01226)+2 种基金the Fujian Provincial Medical Project for Creating Dual High-Quality Development(High Level and High StandardNo.ETK2025004)the Fujian Medical University Qihang Fund(No.2023QH1239).
摘要This letter commends on the study published in World Journal of Gastroenterology by Xu et al,which elucidated the mechanism by which distal bowel resection with terminal ileum preservation(DBRPI)improves hepatic gluconeogenesis via the Prevotellaceae NK3B31_group/7-ketolithocholic acid(7-KLCA)/farnesoid X receptor(FXR)axis.Using multiomics and functional assays,Xu et al identified this microbial–bile acid(BA)axis as central to the metabolic benefits of DBRPI,linking microbial enrichment(e.g.,Prevotellaceae NK3B31_group)to increased 7-KLCA levels and FXR activation,thereby suppressing gluconeogenic gene expression.We highlight the novelty of this work in its focus on taxon-specific microbial and BA dynamics,which advances the understanding of postoperative glucose regulation.Additionally,we note its translational potential—targeting this axis via probiotics or 7-KLCA analogs—and raise several open questions,including causal validation of the microbial taxon,serum 7-KLCA dynamics,and glucagon-likepeptide-1/FXR interplay.Overall,this study bridges gut microbiota and BA crosstalk,offering actionable insights for the treatment of metabolic disease.
摘要Hasan et al presented compelling cross-sectional evidence that Bangladeshi infants aged 6-9 months with environmental enteric dysfunction(EED)exhibit an age-dependent defect in primary bile acid conjugation,concurrent elevations in unconjugated and sulfated primary bile acids,reduced primary conjugated bile acids,and associations between bile acid profiles,small intestinal bacterial overgrowth,enteric inflammation,and impaired linear growth.Their findings have raised important mechanistic and translational questions:Was delayed maturation of bile acid amidation a driver of malabsorption and growth faltering in EED,or a downstream marker of intestinal injury and microbiome immaturity?Did altered bile acid pools contribute to intestinal inflammation and barrier dysfunction via signaling pathways(farnesoid X receptor/Takeda G protein-coupled receptor 5)or via nutrient malabsorption,like lipid and fat-soluble vitamins?Could targeted bile acid replacement,like glycocholic acid or microbiomedirected interventions,offer therapeutic benefit in selected infants?This Letter highlights these key considerations,outlines testable hypotheses and practical next steps for the field,and calls for coordinated longitudinal,mechanistic,and interventional studies to clarify causality and translate these observations into interventions that might mitigate EED-associated stunting.
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.82100568.
摘要BACKGROUND Intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct(IPNB)is a rare disease of the bile duct.It is characterized by a papillary growth within the bile duct lumen.IPNB was formally recognized as a distinct disease entity in 2010,and its etiology remains unknown.IPNB is a complex disease and generally requires multidisciplinary investigation.CASE SUMMARY We report the case of a 67-year-old patient who was asymptomatic but diagnosed with IPNB during treatment of early gastric cancer due to an obvious elevation ofγ-glutamyl transpeptidase.Computed tomography,magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography,endoscopic ultrasonography,and endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography with EyeMaxÔdirect visualization system were crucial for the diagnosis of IPNB.Hepatic surgery was performed,and the patient was discharged without complications.CONCLUSION IPNB is a complicated disease and difficult to diagnose,especially when the patient is asymptomatic.Aggressive surgical resection can achieve adequate clinical outcomes,particularly when IPNB is diagnosed in early stages.
摘要BACKGROUND Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography(ERCP)is the standard approach for the management of common bile duct(CBD)stones;however,it is not universally available.In hospitals lacking on-site ERCP,alternative diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are required,but the scope and quality of the sup-porting evidence remain unclear.AIM To map and synthesize the available literature on non-ERCP diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for CBD stones.METHODS A scoping review was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines.PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus were searched for studies published between 2020 and 2025 on non-ERCP strategies for CBD stones.Eligible studies included observational and comparative designs.Data were extracted and analyzed descriptively,focusing on diagnostic modalities,surgical strategies,and reported outcomes.RESULTS Seven studies met the inclusion criteria,predominantly retrospective and singlecenter in design.Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography,endoscopic ultrasound,and intraoperative imaging were the most frequently reported diagnostic modalities.Laparoscopic CBD exploration,using transcystic or transductal approaches,was the main therapeutic strategy.Outcomes varied across studies and were closely related to institutional expertise and resource availability.CONCLUSION The available evidence is limited and heterogeneous.Non-ERCP strategies are feasible in selected settings,but current data do not support broad generalization.
摘要BACKGROUND Bile spillage occurs more frequently in patients with incidental gallbladder carcinoma(iGBC)and may be associated with poor survival due to presumed high risk of peritoneal seeding.AIM To investigate the impact of bile spillage during primary surgery on the survival of patients with iGBC.METHODS Medical records of patients with iGBC diagnosed between 2000 and 2019 in 27 Dutch secondary centers and 5 tertiary centers were retrospectively reviewed.Patient medical records were assessed.Predictors for overall survival(OS)were determined using multivariable Cox regression.RESULTS Of the 346 included patients with iGBC,138(39.9%)had bile spillage,which was associated with higher American Society of Anesthesiologists classification(P=0.020),cholecystitis(P<0.001),higher tumor stage(P=0.005),and non-radical resection(P<0.001).Bile spillage was associated with poor OS[hazard ratio=1.97,95%confidence interval(CI):1.48-2.63,P<0.001]with a median OS of 12 months(95%CI:7-18 months)vs 34 months(95%CI:14-55 months,P<0.001).In multivariable analysis,spillage was not an independent prognostic factor for survival(hazard ratio=1.21,95%CI:0.84-1.74,P=0.313).CONCLUSION Although bile spillage correlates with prognostic factors,it lacks independent prognostic significance for survival.Patients with an indication for additional treatment should be promptly referred to a specialized hepatopancreatobiliary center,irrespective of whether bile spillage has occurred.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.82274011,U23A20516,U24A20793 and 82260843)the National Key Research and Development Program of China(No.2022YFC3502000)the Traditional Chinese Medicine Guangdong Provincial Laboratory Scientific Research and Development Incubation Project(No.HQL2024PZ004)。
摘要Bile salt hydrolase(BSH),a gatekeeper enzyme in bile acid metabolism,regulates the host's bile acid profile and is closely associated with various metabolic diseases.However,suitable methods for measuring its activity in living systems remain scarce.Herein,a novel far-red fluorogenic substrate(CA-ABEI)for BSH was designed and developed by conjugating cholic acid with an aminocoumarin fluorophore.Under physiological conditions,CA-ABEI can be rapidly hydrolyzed by BSH from various bacterial sources to form ABEI,triggering strong fluorescence enhancement at 620 nm.Specifically activated by BSH,CA-ABEI enables accurate detection of BSH activity in biospecimens,including pure enzymes,bacteria and intact fecal slurries,and the first bioimaging of BSH activity in both BSH-expressing engineered Escherichia coli and natural intestinal microbiota.Moreover,a high-throughput screening platform was established using CA-ABEI,enabling the evaluation of BSH inhibitory effects from 96 herbal extracts.Pu-erh tea emerged as a potent BSH inhibitor and its active components were subsequently characterized,aiding the discovery of novel BSH inhibitors.Collectively,CA-ABEI proved to be a powerful tool for monitoring BSH activity in complex biological systems with value for exploring physiological functions and rapid screening of inhibitors.
基金supported by the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.202413028)the National Key R&D Program of China(No.2022YFD2400103)。
摘要The application of bile acids(BA)in aquafeeds offers potential to mitigate hepatic lipid deposition caused by excessive diets.This study evaluated the effects of different quantities of dietary BA supplementation(0,500,1000,1500 mg/kg)on spotted sea bass(Lateolabrax maculatus).The results showed that 500-1000 mg/kg BA supplementation enhanced growth performance(weight gain,feed conversion ratio),and reduced serum lipids(TG,TC)and liver injury markers(ALT,AST)in Lateolabrax maculatus.Hepatic lipid vacuolization was alleviated at optimal doses(500-1000 mg/kg),while excessive BA(1500 mg/kg)induced hepatocyte swelling.RNA-seq results showed that a total of 5124 differentially expressed genes(DEGs)were enriched in apelin,FoxO,PPAR signaling pathways and in fatty acid metabolism.Weighted gene co-expression analysis identified hub genes SLC25A5 and UCP1 linked to mitochondrial function and lipid oxidation.Moreover,at the transcriptional regulatory level,differential alternative splicing(DAS)analysis further inferred that bile acids could effectively alleviate fat accumulation in the liver through the aforementioned pathways.These findings elucidate BAs'role in mitigating hepatic lipid accumulation via transcription and splicing-mediated metabolic modulation and provide new insight to the balances between BA supplementation and liver health of spotted sea bass.
基金financially supported by the Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(LY22C010002)China Postdoctoral Science Foundation(2022M721732)+1 种基金the project of sending sci-tech experts to rural areas in Ningbo city(2022S205)the K.C.Wong Magna Fund of Ningbo University.
摘要Artemisia argyi(A.argyi)is a Chinese herbal medicine with reported anti-inflammatory effects.In this study,the A.argyi was extracted with water and ethanol,and the concentrations of 35 flavonoids in A.argyi water extract(WE)and ethanol extract(EE)were measured via targeted metabolomics.The antioxidant and antiinflammatory activities of both WE and EE were firstly explored in vitro via chemical assays and cellular experiment,respectively.Both WE and EE showed significant 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl(DPPH),2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)(ABTS),·OH,and O2·radical scavenging ability in a dose-dependent manner,and reduced the levels of interleukin-1β(IL-1β),tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α)and interleukin-22(IL-22)in lipopolysaccharide(LPS)induced RAW264.7 cell model.In addition,the in vivo anti-colitis activity of both extracts was investigated in dextran sulfate sodium(DSS)-induced colitis mice,and the underlying mechanisms were elucidated by 16S r DNA sequencing and targeted metabolomics.We found that both WE and EE relieved colitis in mice,characterized by decreased disease activity index,increased colon length,improved pathological changes in colon tissue,while EE showed better anti-colitis activity.In addition,both 16S r DNA sequencing and targeted bile acids metabolomics indicated EE modulated gut microbiota and specifically increased the abundance of lithocholic acid(LCA),which might contribute to intestinal barrier function improvement via up-regulating the expression of colonic farnesoid X receptor(FXR).In summary,this study identified the anti-colitis mechanism of A.argyi EE by modulating gut microbiota,facilitating the production of LCA,activating FXR and improving intestinal barrier function.
基金supported by the earmarked fund for CARS-47(No.CARS47-11)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.U2106232)+1 种基金the Key Program of National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.31830103)the Ten-Thousand Talents Program(No.2018-29)。
摘要Despite the numerous benefits associated with degossypolized cottonseed oil(DCSO),complete substitution of fish oil(FO)with DCSO in aquafeeds has been demonstrated to have deleterious effects on fish growth and health.The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of incorporating bile acid(BA)into the diets of juvenile large yellow croaker(Larimichthys crocea)with DCSO substitution.The experiment was conducted for ten weeks with a negative control group(FO,100%fish oil),a positive control group(DCSO100,100%DCSO),and two treatment groups,BA600(600 mg/kg BA+DCSO100)and BA1200(1200 mg/kg BA+DCSO100).The initial body weights of these fish were 7.55 g±0.40 g.The results demonstrated that incorporating BA into DCSO100 feed could substantially enhance fish growth and feed efficiency.Furthermore,BA inclusion influenced tissue fatty acid composition by reducing saturated fatty acids(SFAs)and increasing polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFAs),particularly n-3 fatty acids,in both liver and muscle tissues.The BA600 diet enhanced the activity ofα-amylase,lipase,and trypsin in the intestine,suggesting improved nutrient digestibility.Additionally,BA600 modulated hepatic lipid metabolism,as evidenced by decreased triglyceride(TG),total cholesterol(TC),and alanine aminotransferase(ALT)levels,as well as upregulated expressions of sterol regulatory elementbinding protein 1(srebp-1),fatty acid synthase(fas),and acyl-CoA oxidase(aco).BA600 also exhibited immunomodulatory effects,downregulating interleukin 6(il-6),interleukin 1 Beta(il-1β),interferon Gamma(ifnγ),while upregulating interleukin 10(il-10)and arginase 1(arg-1).These findings demonstrate that dietary BA supplementation at 600 mg/kg effectively reduce the adverse effects of complete FO substitution with DCSO,thus represents a promising functional additive for optimizing DCSO-based aquafeeds in juvenile L.crocea aquaculture.
基金supported by grants from the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFA1100500)the Major Research Plan of the National Natural Science Foundation of China(92159202)+3 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82300743)the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(LQ23H160044)the Key Research&Development Plan of Zhejiang Province(2024C03051)Ningbo Top Medical and Health Research Program(2024020818)。
摘要The prognosis for patients diagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma with bile duct tumor thrombus(HCCBDTT)remains dismal,and there are presently no universally accepted treatment guidelines to address this complex condition.Long-term outcomes of liver transplantation(LT)for HCC-BDTT patients are unclear,and whether LT is a proper therapeutic option for HCC-BDTT patients remains to be determined.Therefore,we design a clinical trial to evaluate whether LT can improve recurrence-free survival(RFS)and overall survival(OS)in HCC-BDTT patients.This is an open-labeled,single-arm,prospective,multicenter and real-world study aiming to assess the survival outcomes of HCC-BDTT patients in LT.Patients will be enrolled based on histological confirmation of HCC with BDTT.The study is planned to take 4 years,2 years for enrollment and 2 years for follow-up.We anticipate that LT confers beneficial survival outcomes for HCC-BDTT patients,specifically in terms of the pivotal parameters,such as RFS and quality of life.Upon successful completion of the trial,we will extend our monitoring over a longer follow-up time to accurately estimate important indicators such as OS.We expect that this study provides substantial evidence to refine treatment guidelines through thorough data analysis,ultimately contributing to better patient outcomes and advancing our understanding of the disease.