An international multicentre study of SwiTching from Intravenous to subcutaneous inflixiMab and vEdolizumab in inflammatory bowel diseases: The TIME study.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Subcutaneous (SC) formulations of infliximab (IFX) and vedolizumab (VDZ) are approved for the treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs). Our aim was to evaluate the effectiveness of switching from intravenous (IV) to SC formulations of IFX and VDZ in IBDs. METHODS: This multicentre, retrospective study collected data of adult patients with Crohn's disease (CD) or ulcerative colitis (UC) switched to SC IFX or VDZ. The primary endpoint was clinical remission at 12 months stratified based on timing of switch. A composite endpoint consisting of therapy discontinuation, reverse-switch, need for steroids, and drug optimization was evaluated. A multivariate analysis investigated the association between patients' characteristics and outcomes. RESULTS: Two hundred and thirty-one patients (59% UC, 53% male, mean age 44 ± 15 years, 68% IFX) from 13 centres were included. The switch occurred at Week 6 in a third of cases (36%). Median time to switch was 13 months. Most patients switched to SC IFX and VDZ were in clinical remission at 3 (87% and 77%), 6 (86% and 83%) and 12 (63% and 60%) months. In the multivariate analysis, there was no difference in clinical remission rate at 12 months; however, patients switched at Week 6 had a higher rate of experiencing any therapeutic changes at 3 (false discovery rate (FDR) = .002), 6 (FDR <1 × 10-10) or 12 months (FDR = .08). Clinical disease activity at baseline (only in UC) (FDR = .07) and previous exposure to biologics (FDR = .001) were risk factors for composite endpoint at 6 and 12 months. CONCLUSION: SC IFX and VDZ are effective in daily clinical practice in IBD patients. Switching patients in remission reduces the risk of negative outcomes.

Angiotensin-converting enzymes 1 and 2 in the feces: presence and catalytic activity in the rat 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid-induced model of colitis.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Inflammatory bowel disease is challenging to diagnose. Fecal biomarkers offer noninvasive solutions. The renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system is implicated in intestinal inflammation. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) and angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) regulate its activity, but conflicting findings on these enzymes in colitis require further investigation. We aimed to assess ACE and ACE2 presence and activities in the feces, serum, and colon of 2,4,6-trinitrobenzene sulfonic acid (TNBS)-induced rats. METHODS: Colitis was induced in male rats by rectal instillation of a 21% ethanolic TNBS solution. After rats' sacrifice, colonic portions, serum, and feces were collected. ACE and ACE2 presence in the feces was analyzed by western Blot, and colonic and serum enzymes' concentrations were quantified using ELISA kits. ACE activity was assessed using Hippuryl-His-Leu and Z-Phe-His-Leu as substrates. ACE2 activity was assessed using Mca-APK (Dnp) as a substrate in the presence and absence of DX600 (ACE2 inhibitor). RESULTS: An ACE isoform of ~70 kDa was found only in the feces of TNBS-induced rats. ACE concentration was higher than that of ACE2 in the serum and the inflamed colon. ACE N-domain activity was higher than that of the C-domain in all matrices. ACE2 activity was higher in the feces of TNBS-induced animals compared to controls. CONCLUSION: A 70 kDa ACE isoform only detected in the feces of TNBS-induced rats may have translational relevance. ACE N-domain seems to play a significant role in regulating colonic lesions. Further research using human samples is necessary to validate these findings.

Bile salts and proinflammatory cytokines inhibit MCT1-mediated cellular uptake of butyrate and interfere with its antiproliferative properties.

Butyrate (BT) is important in the prevention and inhibition of colorectal cancer (CRC). Inflammatory bowel disease, a risk factor for CRC, is associated with higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines and bile acids. The aim of this work was to investigate the interaction of these compounds in inhibiting BT uptake by Caco-2 cells, as a mechanism contributing to the link between IBD and CRC. TNF-α, IFN-γ, chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and deoxycholic acid (DCA) markedly reduce 14C-BT uptake. All these compounds appear to inhibit MCT1-mediated BT cellular uptake at a posttranscriptional level, and, because their effect is not additive, they are most probably inhibiting MCT1 by a similar mechanism. Correspondingly, the antiproliferative effect of BT (MCT1-dependent) and of the proinflammatory cytokines and CDCA were not additive. In contrast, the cytotoxic effect of BT (MCT1-independent) and of the proinflammatory cytokines and CDCA were additive. In conclusion, proinflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IFN-γ) and bile acids (DCA and CDCA) inhibit MCT1-mediated BT cellular uptake. These proinflammatory cytokines and CDCA were found to interfere with the antiproliferative effect of BT, mediated by an inhibitory effect upon MCT1-mediated cellular uptake of BT.

Long-term effect of Toll-like receptor-2, -4, -5, -7 and NOD2 stimulation on Na+,K+-ATPase activity and expression in intestinal epithelial cells.

Inappropriate activation of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain receptors (NOD) is involved in many chronic disorders, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Altered function and/or expression of Na+,K+-ATPase (NKA) and epithelial ion channels are the main cause of electrolyte absorption imbalance in patients with IBD, leading to diarrhea. We aimed to evaluate the effect of TLRs and NOD2 stimulation upon NKA activity and expression in human intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) using RT-qPCR, Western blot, and electrophysiology techniques. TLR2, TLR4, and TLR7 activation inhibited NKA activity [(means ± SE) -20.0 ± 1.2%, -34.0 ± 1.5%, and -24.5 ± 2.0% in T84 cells; and -21.6 ± 7.4%, -37.7 ± 3.5%, and -11.0 ± 2.3% in Caco-2 cells]. On the other hand, activation of TLR5 increased NKA activity (16.2 ± 2.9% in T84 and 36.8 ± 5.2% in Caco-2 cells) and ß1-NKA mRNA levels (21.8 ± 7.8% in T84 cells). The TLR4 agonist synthetic monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLAs) reduced α1-NKA mRNA levels in both T84 and Caco-2 cells (-28.5 ± 3.6% and -18.7 ± 2.8%), and this was accompanied by a decrease in α1-NKA protein expression (-33.4 ± 11.8% and -39.4 ± 11.2%). NOD2 activation upregulated NKA activity (12.2 ± 5.1%) and α1-NKA mRNA levels (6.8 ± 1.6%) in Caco-2 cells. In summary, TLR2, TLR4, and TLR7 activation induce downregulation of NKA in IECs, whereas TLR5 and NOD2 activation has the opposite effect. A comprehensive understanding of the cross talk between TLRs, NOD2, and NKA is of utmost relevance for developing better IBD treatments.

Effects of Mirikizumab on Histologic Resolution of Crohn's Disease in a Randomized Controlled Phase 2 Trial.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Histologic evaluation of mucosal healing in Crohn's disease is an evolving treatment target. We evaluated histologic outcomes for mirikizumab efficacy and associations with endoscopic and 1-year outcomes. METHODS: Biopsy specimens from 1 ileal and 4 colonic segments were evaluated at weeks 0, 12, and 52 from each of the 170 SERENITY participants. Criteria for the weeks 12 and 52 histologic response were no epithelial neutrophils or epithelial damage, or >50% decrease in either the Robarts Histopathology Index or the active Global Histologic Disease Activity Score, and remission (no mucosal neutrophils and no epithelial damage) had to be met in all biopsy specimens. Agreement was evaluated between histologic and endoscopic end points. Associations between 1-year outcomes and week 12 histologic and endoscopic response were evaluated. RESULTS: At week 12, 1000 mg mirikizumab resulted in greater rates of histologic response (66% vs 27%; P < .001) and remission (26% vs 6%; P < .01) than placebo. Rates were numerically similar at 1 year (mirikizumab pooled response, 46%-69%; remission, 13%-31%). Agreement between week 12 histologic and endoscopic response was 69% (Cohen's kappa coefficient [κ] = 0.40) and remission was 83% (κ = 0.38) in all pooled arms, including placebo. At 1 year, the percentage of participants who received any dose of mirikizumab and achieved endoscopic remission differed by their week 12 response: histologic (20%), endoscopic (25%), combined histology-endoscopy (45%), or neither (4%) (P = .003). CONCLUSIONS: In a post hoc analysis of phase 2 data, mirikizumab induced and sustained histologic response and remission in Crohn's disease over 52 weeks. Early combined histologic-endoscopic response was associated with endoscopic remission after 1 year of treatment with mirikizumab (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02891226).

I-CARE, a European Prospective Cohort Study Assessing Safety and Effectiveness of Biologics in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: There is a need to evaluate the benefit-risk ratio of current therapies in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients to provide the best quality of care. The primary objective of I-CARE (IBD Cancer and serious infections in Europe) was to assess prospectively safety concerns in IBD, with specific focus on the risk of cancer/lymphoma and serious infections in patients treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor and other biologic monotherapy as well as in combination with immunomodulators. METHODS: I-CARE was designed as a European prospective longitudinal observational multicenter cohort study to include patients with a diagnosis of Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, or IBD unclassified established at least 3 months prior to enrollment. RESULTS: A total of 10,206 patients were enrolled between March 2016 and April 2019, including 6169 (60.4%) patients with Crohn's disease, 3853 (37.8%) with ulcerative colitis, and 184 (1.8%) with a diagnosis of IBD unclassified. Thirty-two percent of patients were receiving azathioprine/thiopurines, 4.6% 6-mercaptopurine, and 3.2% methotrexate at study entry. At inclusion, 47.3% of patients were treated with an anti-tumor necrosis factor agent, 8.8% with vedolizumab, and 3.4% with ustekinumab. Roughly one-quarter of patients (26.8%) underwent prior IBD-related surgery. Sixty-six percent of patients had been previously treated with systemic steroids. Three percent of patients had a medical history of cancer prior to inclusion and 1.1% had a history of colonic, esophageal, or uterine cervix high-grade dysplasia. CONCLUSIONS: I-CARE is an ongoing investigator-initiated observational European prospective cohort study that will provide unique information on the long-term benefits and risks of biological therapies in IBD patients. (EudraCT, Number: 2014-004728-23; ClinicalTrials.gov, Number: NCT02377258).

CORE-IBD: A Multidisciplinary International Consensus Initiative to Develop a Core Outcome Set for Randomized Controlled Trials in Inflammatory Bowel Disease.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: End points to determine the efficacy and safety of medical therapies for Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) are evolving. Given the heterogeneity in current outcome measures, harmonizing end points in a core outcome set for randomized controlled trials is a priority for drug development in inflammatory bowel disease. METHODS: Candidate outcome domains and outcome measures were generated from systematic literature reviews and patient engagement surveys and interviews. An iterative Delphi process was conducted to establish consensus: panelists anonymously voted on items using a 9-point Likert scale, and feedback was incorporated between rounds to refine statements. Consensus meetings were held to ratify the outcome domains and core outcome measures. Stakeholders were recruited internationally, and included gastroenterologists, colorectal surgeons, methodologists, and clinical trialists. RESULTS: A total of 235 patients and 53 experts participated. Patient-reported outcomes, quality of life, endoscopy, biomarkers, and safety were considered core domains; histopathology was an additional domain for UC. In CD, there was consensus to use the 2-item patient-reported outcome (ie, abdominal pain and stool frequency), Crohn's Disease Activity Index, Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn's Disease, C-reactive protein, fecal calprotectin, and co-primary end points of symptomatic remission and endoscopic response. In UC, there was consensus to use the 9-point Mayo Clinic Score, fecal urgency, Robarts Histopathology Index or Geboes Score, fecal calprotectin, and a composite primary end point including both symptomatic and endoscopic remission. Safety outcomes should be reported using the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities. CONCLUSIONS: This multidisciplinary collaboration involving patients and clinical experts has produced the first core outcome set that can be applied to randomized controlled trials of CD and UC.

Taurocholate uptake by Caco-2 cells is inhibited by pro-inflammatory cytokines and butyrate.

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a group of chronic and life-threating inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. The active intestinal absorption of bile salts is reduced in IBD, resulting in higher luminal concentrations of these agents that contribute to the pathophysiology of IBD-associated diarrhea. Butyrate (BT) is a short-chain fatty acid produced by colonic bacterial fermentation of dietary fibers. BT utilization is impaired in the intestinal inflamed mucosa of IBD patients. Our aim was to investigate the link between IBD and bile acid absorption, by testing the effect of the pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ and of BT upon 3H-TC uptake by Caco-2 cells. The proinflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ inhibit Na+-independent, non-ASBT (sodium-dependent bile acid transporter)-mediated 3H-TC uptake by Caco-2 cells. The inhibitory effect of these cytokines on Na+-independent 3H-TC uptake is PI3K- and JAK/STAT1-mediated. These two compounds upregulate ASBT expression levels, but no corresponding increase in Na+-dependent component of 3H-TC is observed. Moreover, BT was also found to inhibit 3H-TC uptake and showed an additive effect with IFN-γ in reducing 3H-TC uptake. We conclude that an interaction between BT and bile acids appears to exist in IBD, which may participate in the link between diet, microbiota and IBD.

Dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) in fecal samples: validation of the extraction methodology and stability in short-term storage conditions.

OBJECTIVES: This study assesses the clinical relevance of dipeptidyl peptidase 4 (DPP4) membrane exopeptidase as a biomarker of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). A spike-and-recovery approach of DPP4 in fecal samples was used to compare two different methods for protein extraction, followed by a stability assessment. METHODS: Fecal samples of healthy volunteers spiked with known concentrations of recombinant DPP4 were processed using a standard manual extraction protocol and the CALEX® protocol. The two methods were compared by quantification of fecal DPP4 by ELISA, followed by Bland-Altman analysis. For the stability assays DPP4 was extracted from fecal samples and stored under different conditions of temperature and time after collection. RESULTS: In general, the levels of spiked DPP4 in stool samples were lower with the manual protocol than in those obtained with the CALEX® method; this trend was corroborated by Bland-Altman analysis. Nonetheless, variability was within the acceptable limits for both protocols. In the stability assessment, no statistically significant differences were found between the results obtained under the different storage conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Both manual and CALEX® protocols provided equal extraction ability of DPP4 from stool samples. In addition, DPP4 provided flexibility in terms of sample storage enabling the accurate assessment of samples delivered up to a week before analysis.

International Consensus on Definition of Mild-to-Moderate Ulcerative Colitis Disease Activity in Adult Patients.

Background and Objectives: At present, there is no consensus definition of mild-to-moderate disease activity in patients with ulcerative colitis. The objective of the present study was to establish a reliable definition of mild-to-moderate disease activity in adult patients with ulcerative colitis. Materials and Methods: Twelve physicians from around the world participated in a virtual consensus meeting on 26 September 2022. All the physicians had expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease. After a systematic review of the literature and expert opinion, a modified version of the RAND/University of California, Los Angeles appropriateness method was applied. A total of 49 statements were identified and then anonymously rated (on a 9-point scale) as being appropriate (scores of 7 to 9), uncertain (4 to 6) or inappropriate (1 to 3). The survey results were reviewed and amended before a second round of voting. Results: Symptom and endoscopic-based measurements are of prime importance for assessing mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis activity in clinical trials. The experts considered that clinical activity should be assessed in terms of stool frequency, rectal bleeding and fecal urgency, whereas endoscopic activity should be evaluated with regard to the vascular pattern, bleeding, erosions and ulcers. Fecal calprotectin was considered to be a suitable disease activity marker in mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis. Lastly, mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis should not have more than a small impact on the patient's daily activities. Conclusions: The present recommendations constitute a standardized framework for defining mild-to-moderate disease activity in clinical trials in the field of ulcerative colitis.

Effect of Toll-like receptor-2, -4, -5, -7, and NOD2 stimulation on potassium channel conductance in intestinal epithelial cells.

Disproportionate activation of pattern recognition receptors plays a role in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) pathophysiology. Diarrhea is a hallmark symptom of IBD, resulting at least in part from an electrolyte imbalance that may be caused by changes in potassium channel activity. We evaluated the impact of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain 2 (NOD2) stimulation on potassium conductance of the basolateral membrane in human intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) and the role of potassium channels through electrophysiological assays under short-circuit current in Ussing chambers. TLRs and NOD2 were stimulated using specific agonists, and potassium channels were selectively blocked using triarylmethane-34 (TRAM-34), adenylyl-imidodiphosphate (AMP-PNP), and BaCl2. Potassium conductance of the basolateral membrane decreased upon activation of TLR2, TLR4, and TLR7 in T84 cells (means ± SE, -11.2 ± 4.5, -40.4 ± 7.2, and -19.4 ± 5.9, respectively) and in Caco-2 cells (-13.1 ± 5.7, -55.7 ± 7.4, and -29.1 ± 7.2, respectively). In contrast, activation of TLR5 and NOD2 increased basolateral potassium conductance, both in T84 cells (18.0 ± 4.1 and 18.4 ± 2.8, respectively) and in Caco-2 cells (21.2 ± 8.4 and 16.0 ± 3.6, respectively). TRAM-34 and AMP-PNP induced a decrease in basolateral potassium conductance upon TLR4 stimulation in both cell lines. Both KCa3.1- and Kir6-channels appear to be important mediators of this effect in IECs and could be potential targets for therapeutic agent development.NEW & NOTEWORTHY This study highlights that PRRs stimulation directly influences K+-channel conductance in IECs. TLR-2, -4, -7 stimulation decreased K+ conductance, whereas TLR5 and NOD2 stimulation had the opposite effect, leading to an increase of it instead. This study reports for the first time that KCa3.1- and Kir6-channels play a role in K+ transport pathways triggered by TLR4 stimulation. These findings suggest that KCa3.1- and Kir6-channels modulation may be a potential target for new therapeutic agents in IBD.

Subclinical Persistent Inflammation as Risk Factor for Crohn's Disease Progression: Findings From a Prospective Real-World Study of 2 Years.

BACKGROUND AND AIMS: Subclinical intestinal inflammation is common in Crohn's disease (CD). We aimed to explore its impact in the disease progression of infliximab-treated patients and the usefulness of fecal calprotectin (FC) and C-reactive protein (CRP) as surrogate minimally invasive biomarkers. METHODS: The registry-based, prospective, observational, multicenter DIRECT (study to investigate the correlation of fecal calprotectin with serum Drug levels and development of an antI-dRug antibodiEs among adult patients with inflammatory bowel disease reCeiving anti-TNF-alfa treatment or vedoluzimab treatment) study followed infliximab-treated CD patients for 2 years in a tertiary care setting. Persistent inflammation definition was based on FC (>150 µg/g, >250 µg/g, or >350 µg/g) or serum CRP (>3 µg/mL) concentrations over 2 consecutive or at least 3 visits. Patients were categorized according to a composite outcome reflecting disease progression that incorporated surgery; hospitalizations; new fistulae, abscess, or stricture; and treatment escalation. RESULTS: Of 322 DIRECT study patients, 180 asymptomatic, infliximab treated on maintenance regimen were included in the analysis. Patients developing the composite endpoint (n = 96) presented higher median levels of FC (205 [interquartile range, 98-515] µg/g; P = .045) but not of CRP (2.50 [interquartile range, 0.80-6.00] µg/mL; P = .895). Biomarker-defined persistent subclinical inflammation prevalence ranged from 24% to 81%. Considering FC >250 µg/g in 2 consecutive visits, prevalence was 50%, odds of achieving the endpoint were increased 3-fold (odds ratio, 2.996 [95% confidence interval, 1.557-5.776]), and time-to-outcome occurrence was significantly lower among subjects with persistent inflammation (median time: 11 months). Both clinical-related and treatment-related components were significantly associated with persistent inflammation. Definitions based on CRP >3 µg/mL, FC >150 µg/g, FC >350 µg/g, double biomarkers (FC >250 µg/g and/or CRP >3 µg/mL), or more visits did not improve predictive ability. CONCLUSIONS: Persistent inflammation, defined simply and readily by FC >250 µg/g over 2 consecutive visits, was associated with a significantly higher risk and shorter time to occurrence of a composite outcome reflecting disease progression in asymptomatic infliximab-treated CD patients.

IOIBD Recommendations for Clinical Trials in Ulcerative Proctitis: The PROCTRIAL Consensus.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: Clinical trials evaluating biologics and small molecules in patients with ulcerative colitis are predominantly excluding ulcerative proctitis. The objective of the Definition and endpoints for ulcerative PROCtitis in clinical TRIALs initiative was to develop consensus statements for definitions, inclusion criteria, and endpoints for the evaluation of ulcerative proctitis in adults. METHODS: Thirty-five international experts held a consensus meeting to define ulcerative proctitis, and the endpoints to use in clinical trials. Based on a systematic review of the literature, statements were generated, discussed, and approved by the working group participants using a modified Delphi method. Consensus was defined as at least 75% agreement among voters. RESULTS: The group agreed that the diagnosis of ulcerative proctitis should be made by ileocolonoscopy and confirmed by histopathology, with the exclusion of infections, drug-induced causes, radiation, trauma, and Crohn's disease. Ulcerative proctitis was defined as macroscopic extent of lesions limited to 15 cm distance from the anal verge in adults. Primary and secondary endpoints were identified to capture response of ulcerative proctitis to therapy. A combined clinical and endoscopic primary endpoint for the evaluation of ulcerative proctitis disease activity was proposed. Secondary endpoints that should be evaluated include endoscopic remission, histologic remission, mucosal healing, histologic endoscopic mucosal improvement, disability, fecal incontinence, urgency, constipation, and health-related quality of life. CONCLUSIONS: In response to the need for guidance on the design of clinical trials in patients with ulcerative proctitis, the Definition and end points for ulcerative PROCtitis in clinical TRIALs consensus provides recommendations on the definition and endpoints for ulcerative proctitis clinical trials.

Multinational evaluation of clinical decision-making in the treatment and management of mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis.

OBJECTIVES: To understand current thinking and clinical decision-making in the treatment and management of patients with mild-to-moderate ulcerative colitis (UC). METHODS: This multinational, survey-based study was conducted in 2021. Two meetings were held, involving 11 IBD specialists, that used a series of questions and discussion to identify all factors possibly related to the management of UC. The importance of identified factors was assessed using an online questionnaire covering three scenarios - active disease, remission and patient empowerment. Each factor was scored on a scale of 0 (very-unimportant) to 100 (very-important) within each scenario, by a separate group of healthcare professionals working in IBD. RESULTS: A total of 157 individual factors were identified by the 11 IBD specialists and scored in the three scenarios by 56 respondents (52; 93% specialist gastroenterologists) from Europe and North America (25; 45%), South America (19; 34%) and the Middle East, Asia and Australia (12; 21%). For all scenarios, factors related to educating patients regarding UC and its treatment and understanding of patient goals ranked highest, ahead of clinical considerations regarding disease activity and treatment history. Setting realistic short-term treatment targets was a key consideration. 5-ASA optimisation and use of faecal calprotectin monitoring were core strategies across the three scenarios tested. Support for patients during longer-term management of their disease, starting from initial flare, was an important recurring theme. CONCLUSION: The current management approach for mild-to-moderate UC was found to be guided primarily by the patient's perspectives and goals, alongside assessment of their medical and disease history.

Potassium channels in intestinal epithelial cells and their pharmacological modulation: a systematic review.

Several potassium channels (KCs) have been described throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Notwithstanding, their contribution to both physiologic and pathophysiologic conditions, as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), remains underexplored. Therefore, we aim to systematically review, for the first time, the evidence on the characteristics and modulation of KCs in intestinal epithelial cells (IECs). PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched to identify studies focusing on KCs and their modulation in IECs. The included studies were assessed using a reporting inclusiveness checklist. From the 745 identified records, 73 met the inclusion criteria; their reporting inclusiveness was moderate-high. Some studies described the physiological role of KCs, while others explored their importance in pathological settings. Globally, in IBD animal models, apical KCa1.1 channels, responsible for luminal secretion, were upregulated. In human colonocytes, basolateral KCa3.1 channels were downregulated. The pharmacological inhibition of K2P and Kv influenced intestinal barrier function, promoting inflammation. Evidence suggests a strong association between KCs expression and secretory mechanisms in human and animal IECs. Further research is warranted to explore the usefulness of KC pharmacological modulation as a therapeutic target.

Histologic Features of Colon Biopsies (Geboes Score) Associated With Progression of Ulcerative Colitis for the First 36 Months After Biopsy.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: In addition to findings from endoscopy, histologic features of colon biopsies have been associated with outcomes of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC). We investigated associations between Geboes scores (a system to quantify structural changes and inflammatory activity in colon biopsies) and UC progression, and the time period over which this association is valid. METHODS: We analyzed data from 399 asymptomatic patients with UC enrolled in the ACERTIVE study, followed at 13 inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) centers in Portugal through 31 December 2019. Blood and stool samples were collected and analyzed, and all patients underwent sigmoidoscopy within 24 h of sample collection. We assessed baseline endoscopic status (Mayo endoscopic subscore), histologic features of 2 sigmoid and 2 rectal biopsies (Geboes score), and concentration of fecal calprotectin (FC). The primary outcome was UC progression (surgical, pharmacologic, and clinical events). We generated survival curves for 36 months or less and more than 36 months after biopsy according to Geboes score using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared findings with those from a log rank test. Cox regression was adjusted for Mayo endoscopic subscore, Geboes score, and level of FC; results were expressed as adjusted hazard ratios (HR) with 95% CIs. RESULTS: Patients with Geboes scores >2B.0, Geboes scores >3.0, or Geboes scores >4.0 had a higher frequency of, and a shorter time to UC progression, than patients with Geboes scores ≤2B.0, Geboes scores ≤3.0, or Geboes score ≤4.0 (P < .001). Disease progression occurred earlier in patients with Geboes scores >2B.0, Geboes scores >3.0, or Geboes scores >4.0 compared with patients with Geboes scores ≤2B.0 (HR, 2.021; 95% CI, 1.158-3.526), Geboes scores ≤3.0 (HR, 2.007; 95% CI, 1.139-3.534), or Geboes scores ≤4.0 (HR, 2.349; 95% CI, 1.269-4.349), respectively, in the first 36 months after biopsy. Similar results were found for patients with concentrations of FC below 150 µg/g. CONCLUSIONS: We found histologic features of colon biopsies (Geboes score) to be an independent risk factor for progression of UC in the first 36 months after biopsy.

Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire: translation and validation to the Portuguese language.

BACKGROUND: The Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire (SIBDQ) is a widely used instrument to assess Health-related Quality of Life (HRQoL) among inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients. Our aim was to translate and adapt the SIBDQ so that it could be adequately used in Portugal. METHODS: This is a prospective design cohort study undertaken at a tertiary hospital. This study took place simultaneously with the first part of the SexIDI study, a study aiming to assess the impact of IBD on patients' sexual QoL. The original SIBDQ was translated by two independent translators and adapted by an IBD expert panel following the opinions of a convenient sample of 5 IBD patients. Afterwards, IBD patients from the outpatient clinic were consecutively invited to fill the Portuguese version of the questionnaire (SIBDQ-PT) at three different timepoints (0, 2, 4 weeks). Ninety-two patients completed the SIBDQ-PT at baseline, whereas 33 did so after 2 and 4 weeks (approximately). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, and the following aspects were analysed: reliability (through internal consistency, test-retest and intraclass correlation), validity (through exploratory factor analysis [EFA], and Pearson correlation coefficient for linear correlations), score distribution, and responsiveness analysis (through t-student tests). RESULTS: Overall, SIBDQ-PT was shown to have a high internal consistency (Cronbach's α = 0.80) and a high test-retest reliability (0.80 [CI 0.74-0.86] and 0.69 [CI 0.50-0.82]). EFA detected four dimensions-bowel, social, emotional and systemic. As expected, an overall SIBDQ-PT score was positively correlated with sexual satisfaction (r = 0.27; p < 0.05) and negatively correlated with depression (r = - 0.63; p < 0.01). Moreover, SIBDQ-PT was found to have an adequate score distribution, and to be responsive, as there was a significant subscore change for patients who reported an "overall worsening in general well-being" (0.93 ± 0.13 decrease; p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: The Portuguese version of the SIBDQ hereby presented is a reliable, valid and responsive instrument that can be used to measure HRQoL among Portuguese IBD patients.

Interaction between the Renin-Angiotensin System and Enteric Neurotransmission Contributes to Colonic Dysmotility in the TNBS-Induced Model of Colitis.

Angiotensin II (Ang II) regulates colon contraction, acting not only directly on smooth muscle but also indirectly, interfering with myenteric neuromodulation mediated by the activation of AT1 /AT2 receptors. In this article, we aimed to explore which mediators and cells were involved in Ang II-mediated colonic contraction in the TNBS-induced rat model of colitis. The contractile responses to Ang II were evaluated in distinct regions of the colon of control animals or animals with colitis in the absence and presence of different antagonists/inhibitors. Endogenous levels of Ang II in the colon were assessed by ELISA and the number of AT1/AT2 receptors by qPCR. Ang II caused AT1 receptor-mediated colonic contraction that was markedly decreased along the colons of TNBS-induced rats, consistent with reduced AT1 mRNA expression. However, the effect mediated by Ang II is much more intricate, involving (in addition to smooth muscle cells and nerve terminals) ICC and EGC, which communicate by releasing ACh and NO in a complex mechanism that changes colitis, unveiling new therapeutic targets.

Features of Fecal and Colon Microbiomes Associate With Responses to Biologic Therapies for Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: A Systematic Review.

BACKGROUND & AIMS: We performed a systematic review of changes in fecal and colon microbiomes of patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) receiving treatment with monoclonal antibodies against tumor necrosis factor, integrins, or cytokines. We explored associations among microbiome composition and functions (at baseline and throughout the treatment) and therapy-related outcomes to determine whether colon or fecal microbiomes might be used as biomarkers of response to therapy. METHODS: We searched the PubMed, Web of Science, and Science Direct databases through February 2019 for studies of associations among the microbiomes of fecal or colon samples, biologic therapies, and IBDs. We used the critical appraisal skills program checklist to assess the quality of the study methods. RESULTS: From the 787 citations identified, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. Changes in microbiomes of fecal or colon samples after treatment did not differ significantly among biologic agents; all produced decreases in relative abundances of Escherichia and Enterococcus and increases in genera that produce short-chain fatty acids. Fecal or colon microbiomes of patients who responded to therapy with antagonists of tumor necrosis factor or interleukins had higher α-diversity and increased relative abundances of different genera (Faecalibacterium, Roseburia, or Clostridium) from the Clostridiales order, either at baseline or during follow-up evaluation. Patients in remission after treatment with antibodies against integrins had decreased abundances of Roseburia. CONCLUSIONS: In a systematic review of 10 studies, we found evidence for consistent changes in microbiomes of fecal and colon samples from patients with IBD who responded to treatment with biologic agents. Prospective studies are needed to determine what changes are associated significantly with treatment, whether these changes are causes or effects of response, or whether the composition of the intestinal microbiome can be used to select treatments for patients with IBD.

Histological Remission in Ulcerative Colitis: Under the Microscope Is the Cure.

In recent years, the therapeutic goals in ulcerative colitis (UC) have become increasingly stringent. Histological features seem to be a reliable predictor of disease outcomes after therapy, and histological remission (HR) is the new frontier in the treatment of UC. Here, we first provide a historical perspective before reviewing indexes in the era of biologics; histology as a treatment goal in UC trials; the poor correlation between symptoms, endoscopy, and histology; and the impact of histology on disease outcomes. HR seems to be a promising end point for the treatment of UC because it is typically associated with better outcomes. Two new validated indexes are available to assess histology more accurately in trials, and they may also be applicable to clinical practice. Additional interventional trials are now necessary to establish definitions of HR and its potential for disease modification.