Volume 14 Issue 9, September 2017

NAFLD, the hepatic manifestation of the metabolic syndrome, is a multifactorial condition — environmental factors influence an inherited genetic risk. Stender et al. now describe the additive effect of obesity and NAFLD-associated genetic polymorphisms on steatosis, elevated serum alanine aminotransferase levels and cirrhosis, remarkably illustrating the principle of gene–environment interactions.

Biosimilar monoclonal antibodies are now being accepted in clinical practice by IBD specialists. However, switching patients already undergoing originator biologic treatment to biosimilars has been debated due to lack of controlled studies. The NOR-SWITCH study now provides novel clinical evidence in switching from originator to biosimilar in patients with IBD.

The intestinal lymphatic vasculature has a range of functions, from maintenance of interstitial fluid balance to transport of antigens, cells, dietary lipids and fat-soluble vitamins. In this Review, Petrova and Bernier-Latmani provide an in-depth overview of intestinal lymphatics, including their roles in human diseases.

Increasing evidence suggests that the gut microbiota are important modulators of chronic liver disease progression and the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. In this Review, Yu and Schwabe discuss the mechanisms by which the gut microbiota promote hepatocarcinogenesis, and explore therapeutic interventions with clinical potential.

Owing to its unique composition and influence on numerous biological processes, the extracellular matrix (ECM) is an ideal therapeutic substrate for tissue repair. In this Review, the authors provide an overview of ECM bioscaffolds derived from gastrointestinal tissues, and discuss advances in regenerative medicine using these scaffolds for the reconstruction of functional gastrointestinal tissues.

Combating the obesity epidemic necessitates a range of effective therapies. In this Review, Dixon and Lee explore the medical devices developed to bridge the gap between conservative lifestyle and pharmacotherapy interventions and disruptive surgical approaches, focusing on mechanisms of action, efficacy and safety.