Ryan Reynolds’ Colonoscopy; NASH Drug Passes Phase II Test; New Drug Target in IBD?

In an effort to shine a light on the importance of colorectal cancer screening, movie-star Ryan Reynolds shared details of his polyp removal found on colonoscopy. (GMA)

The phase IIb Harmony study of efruxifermin in non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) met its primary and secondary histological endpoints, demonstrating improvements in fibrosis stage and NASH resolution with two doses of the investigational drug versus placebo, Akero Therapeutics announced.

Also in NASH, researchers identified liver stiffness thresholds on vibration-controlled transient elastography for risk stratification in those with advanced fibrosis. (Gut)

Pre-emptive transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt was associated with better survival compared to endoscopic treatment in high-risk patients with cirrhosis and variceal bleeding who present with hepatic encephalopathy. (Gut)

In Wilson’s disease patients with chronic liver disease on chelation therapy, does having just one loss-of-function variant in the ATP7B gene portend worse prognosis? (Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology)

A third dose of COVID vaccine boosted antibodies for immunosuppressed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) patients, though less so for those taking infliximab (Remicade) or tofacitinib (Xeljanz), according to a U.K. study. (Lancet Gastroenterology & Hepatology)

Persistent fibrinolysis resistance is a predictor of early infection after liver transplantation. (American Journal of Surgery)

An online interactive tool (NAFLD Simulator) can estimate long-term outcomes for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, and may be useful for promoting disease awareness. (JAMA Network Open)

Takeda said it launched its CDPATH program nationwide; the personalized prognostic tool can predict the risk of developing Crohn’s disease-related complications within 3 years.

A set of interacting molecules in immune cells within the gut may be responsible for preventing inflammation in IBD, according to early research, offering a potential new drug target for treatment. (Cell Reports)

Contrary to common practice, elective hernia repair surgery may be favorable for patients with advanced liver disease, an analytical modeling study suggested. (JAMA Network Open)