A recent study has introduced an integrative risk score that effectively predicts the future onset of Crohn’s disease. This tool combines genetic, environmental, and clinical factors to assess an individual’s likelihood of developing the condition. By evaluating these combined risk elements, healthcare providers can identify high-risk individuals earlier, potentially leading to proactive monitoring and preventive strategies.
Author: Abhay Panchal
In this podcast episode, Larry Kosinski, MD, founder of SonarMD, discusses reclaiming GI services for patients and physicians, developing new tools for IBD patients and more.
Pfizer has received FDA accelerated approval for BRAFTOVI (encorafenib) combined with cetuximab and mFOLFOX6 to treat metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) with a BRAF V600E mutation, as confirmed by an FDA-approved test. The approval, part of the FDA’s Project FrontRunner initiative, is based on the Phase III BREAKWATER trial, which showed a 61% response rate with the BRAFTOVI regimen compared to 40% in the control arm. Further trials are ongoing to confirm long-term clinical benefits. Pfizer continues global regulatory discussions to expand approvals and is exploring next-generation BRAF inhibitors for broader cancer treatments.
Sotelix Endoscopy, a Baltimore-based startup founded in March 2024 by Dr. Mouen Khashab of Johns Hopkins University, has raised $1.7 million to fund research, development, and in vivo testing of its therapeutic endoscopy devices. Focused on minimally invasive procedures for gastrointestinal tissue closure, the company attracted investors with clinical, technical, and business expertise. Dr. Khashab, a leader in therapeutic endoscopy with over 575 publications and 10+ patents, aims to transform GI treatments with innovative, incision-free technologies.
Three organizations—Rocky Mountain Gastroenterology Associates, Radiologic Medical Services, and the law firm Ott Cone & Redpath—reported cyberattacks compromising sensitive data.
A new study published in Nature introduces NK2R agonists as a promising alternative to GLP-1 drugs for obesity and diabetes, showing significant weight loss, improved glucose control, and no muscle loss in animal trials—potentially addressing key side effects and high costs associated with GLP-1 therapies like Ozempic and Wegovy, with human trials expected to begin next year.
The FDA has approved a generic version of liraglutide (Victoza) for managing blood sugar in type 2 diabetes patients aged 10 and older, enhancing access to affordable GLP-1 medications amid shortages. Manufactured by Hikma Pharmaceuticals, this once-daily injectable complements diet and exercise and aligns with the FDA’s efforts to promote competition and accessibility for complex drug products.
A panel of experts, including Dr. Austin Lee Chiang, Chief Medical Officer at Medtronic Endoscopy; Dr. Jonathan Ng, Founder and CEO of Iterative Health; and Dr. J. Casey Chapman, Chief Medical Officer at GI Alliance, examined the expanding role of artificial intelligence in GI care, with a focus on its use in colonoscopies and its influence on the diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer and other gastrointestinal conditions.
The FDA has granted accelerated approval to a combination therapy led by encorafenib (Braftovi) for patients with BRAF V600E-mutant metastatic colorectal cancer, based on findings from the BREAKWATER trial. Patients treated with encorafenib, cetuximab, and chemotherapy (mFOLFOX6) demonstrated a higher response rate (61% vs. 40%) and longer median response duration (13.9 vs. 11.1 months) compared to the control group. Common side effects included neuropathy, nausea, and fatigue, with grade 3/4 lab abnormalities like elevated lipase and low neutrophils. Ongoing studies will further evaluate progression-free and overall survival.
The global gastroenterology market is projected to achieve USD 66.4 billion in revenue by 2033, according to a recent report by Dimension Market Research. This growth is expected to occur at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% over the forecast period. Factors fueling this expansion include the rising prevalence of digestive disorders, advancements in diagnostic technologies, and increased patient awareness of available treatments. Enhanced research and innovation in therapeutic and minimally invasive procedures, alongside a growing emphasis on early disease detection, are also anticipated to drive sustained market growth in the coming years.