Recent advances in gastrointestinal pharmacology and therapeutics

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In gastroenterology, new therapies, both pharmaceutical and invasive, frequently emerge, often generating initial enthusiasm. Over time, these therapies may either fail or find their appropriate place in treatment protocols. It is crucial to critically evaluate these developments to assess their efficacy, safety, and superiority over existing options. The pharmacotherapy of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is particularly challenging due to its extensive mucosal area and complex systems, including its own nervous and endocrine systems, barriers to various environments, and mucosal immune system (GALT). These factors contribute to the pathophysiology of digestive disorders, making targeted therapeutic interventions essential while also considering the potential for drug side effects. Gastroenterology faces significant unmet clinical needs, and this issue focuses on Advances in GI Pharmacology and Therapeutics. Renowned experts explore drug classes that show promise in addressing these needs, many of which are already in clinical testing. Topics include acid suppressant therapy, anti-diarrheal agents, serotoninergic drugs, CCK-antagonists, neurokinin receptor-antagonists, peripheral opioid receptor ligands, treatments for H. pylori, biologic therapies in IBD, probiotics, acute pancreatitis management, and emerging therapies for viral hepatitis and liver fibrosis. This comprehensive resource will benefit pharmacologists, gastroent