Letter from the Editor

Dear Esteemed Readers,

Welcome to the latest edition of our publication, where we continue our commitment to delivering insightful and cutting-edge updates from the field of gastroenterology. As we delve into the diverse array of topics in this issue, it's evident that the landscape of gastroenterological research and practice is constantly evolving, driven by innovative discoveries and groundbreaking advancements.

In this edition, we are delighted to present a comprehensive report covering the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation (ECCO) Congress 2024, which took place in Stockholm. This prestigious event brought together leading experts and practitioners from around the world to share their knowledge and insights into the latest developments in the field.

As we explore the content of this edition, we shine a spotlight on the rising prominence of IL-23 inhibitors, exploring their increasing utilisation and efficacy in managing various gastrointestinal disorders. From the encouraging outcomes of mirikizumab in Crohn’s disease as demonstrated in the VIVID-1 trial to the long-term benefits of risankizumab in ulcerative colitis showcased in the COMMAND study, our coverage provides valuable insights into the expanding therapeutic options available to patients and clinicians alike.

Furthermore, our exploration extends to inspiring drug trials and treatment strategies, including the promising potential of novel agents like VTX002 in ulcerative colitis and the benefits of a top-down treatment approach for patients with early Crohn’s disease (PROFILE). We also delve into the evolving landscape of JAK inhibitors, examining their efficacy in Crohn’s disease, microscopic colitis and their role as a rescue option for acute severe ulcerative colitis.

As we navigate through the latest advancements in endoscopy, screening, and risk factors, we address critical questions surrounding the use of AI-assisted endoscopy in predicting relapse in ulcerative colitis and the importance of genetic testing, such as NUDT15 testing, in optimising treatment outcomes for patients with Asian ancestry.

Last but not least, our focus extends to surgical solutions, where we explore the nuances of surgical approaches in Crohn’s disease, including the debate between extended mesenterectomy and mesenteric-sparing surgery (SPICY trial) and KONO-S and side-to side anastomosis, as well as the outcomes of darvadstrocel in complex peri-anal fistula in the ADMIRE-CD-II trial.

We are confident that this edition will serve as a valuable resource for practitioners, researchers, and all those dedicated to advancing the field of gastroenterology. We extend our gratitude to the contributors, researchers, and clinicians whose dedication and expertise continue to drive progress in our understanding and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders. We hope you find this edition both informative and enlightening.

Marjolijn Duijvestein

Biography

Marjolijn Duijvestein works as a gastroenterologist in the IBD team of the Radboudumc in Nijmegen, the Netherlands. In 2012, she obtained her PhD at Leiden University and was trained as a gastroenterologist specialised in IBD disease at the Amsterdam UMC in Amsterdam. As part of her training, she gained experience at the University of California San Diego (UCSD, USA) and performed an internship at Alimentiv (former Robarts Clinical Trials), an academic research organisation dedicated to drug development for IBD. Her clinical activity and research are focused on IBD, in particular clinical and translational research.

Conflict of Interest Statement: Has served as an advisor for Echo Pharma and Robarts Clinical Trials, reports nonfinancial support from Dr Falk Pharma, and received speaker fees from Janssen, Merck & Co., Pfizer, Takeda and Tillotts Pharma. Advisory boards Janssen, Takeda, BMS and Abbvie.



Posted on 18 April 2024