What is the SPINK1 gene?

The SPINK1 gene encodes pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor, which is secreted from pancreatic acinar cells into pancreatic juice. Its physiologic role was thought to be the prevention of trypsin-catalyzed premature activation of zymogens within the pancreas and the pancreatic duct.

What is SPINK1 test?

This test looks for presence or absence of familial mutations. The number of amplicons tested depends on the number and location of the familial mutations.

Does Psti inhibit trypsin itself?

Pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor (PSTI), also known as serine protease inhibitor Kazal type I(SPINK1), binds rapidly to trypsin, inhibits its activity and is likely to protect the pancreas from prematurely activated trypsinogen. Therefore, it is an important factor in the onset of pancreatitis.

What is tropical pancreatitis?

Tropical pancreatitis is a special type of chronic pancreatitis that is seen mainly in tropical countries. The prevalence of tropical pancreatitis is about 126/100,000 population in southern India. It occurs usually in young people, involves the main pancreatic duct and results in large ductal calculi.

What causes tropical pancreatitis?

It occurs usually in young people, involves the main pancreatic duct and results in large ductal calculi. The etiology is not known, but genetic mutations such as the SPINK1 gene mutation and environmental factors are likely causes. Clinically, >90% of patients present with abdominal pain.

Is Tropical pancreatitis premalignant?

Background: Chronic pancreatitis (CP) especially tropical pancreatitis has been reported to be a pre-malignant condition.

What does CFTR protein do?

The cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) protein helps to maintain the balance of salt and water on many surfaces in the body, such as the surface of the lung. When the protein is not working correctly, chloride — a component of salt — becomes trapped in cells.