Volume 13 Issue 10, October 2016

Unexpected data from new studies show that direct-acting antiviral agents might promote tumour occurrence in patients with cirrhosis, or recurrence in patients with presumed cure of hepatocellular carcinoma. In view of the potential clinical implications, this controversy calls for a thorough and expeditious consideration of the hypothetical oncogenic activity of novel HCV drugs.

Converging studies have shown that the gut microbiota composition and activity possibly contribute to shape host metabolism. A new study deeply analysed metabolic parameters in humans with obesity after short-term antibiotic exposure; the conclusion calls into doubt some direct and simple associations found between the gut microbiota and metabolic disorders

Although a colonoscopy for the evaluation of IBD and the surveillance of colitis-associated neoplasia should be performed at the time of the diagnosis of primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), the results from a new study suggest that screening for PSC with magnetic resonance cholangiography in patients with long-term IBD might be needed.

Objective assessment of disease activity in IBD is crucial for successfully guiding therapy. Here, the authors comprehensively evaluate disease activity indices for their use in clinical practice and clinical trials, as well as assessing relevant biomarkers and measures of quality of life.

In this Review, the authors summarize current knowledge of the epidemiology, pathogenesis and molecular biology of hepatitis delta virus. A summary of existing treatment options and novel treatment regimens under clinical development is provided.

Necrotizing enterocolitis is the most frequent and lethal gastrointestinal disease in premature infants. This Review outlines current approaches for the treatment and diagnosis of necrotizing enterocolitis and examines the progress made in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of this disease as well as potential avenues for future treatment development.

IgG4-related hepatobiliary diseases are part of a multiorgan fibroinflammatory condition termed IgG4-related disease. In this Review, Chapman and Culver provide an overview on the natural history, manifestations and aetiopathogenesis of IgG4-related hepatobiliary disease with an emphasis on IgG4-sclerosing cholangitis.

Although IBS and IBD are regarded as distinct entities, they do share features and symptoms. This Perspective explores the overlap between the two conditions, debating whether consideration of the similarities between IBS and IBD could improve treatment and inform future research.