GI highlights from the literature

ABSTRACT

Ascl2 target genes were found to include interleukin receptor 11 gene, IL11ra1, recognised as a regulator in stem cell renewal. Enteric Nervous System-Derived IL-18 Orchestrates Mucosal Barrier Immunity Cell 2020;180(1) 50-63.e12 The interactions between the nervous and immune systems have been shown to maintain the intestinal mucosal barrier function and shape its responses to environmental triggers. Protection from aldehyde-related damage is achieved through their clearance by aldehyde dehydrogenase enzymes and repair of damaged DNA. Gastroenterology 2020;158 (4) 862–874.e8 Benefits of colorectal screening programmes with reductions in colorectal cancer (CRC) incidence and mortality are well established in screening programmes for flexible sigmoidoscopy, faecal occult blood testing and adenomas removed at baseline colonoscopy.