Pathogenesis of autoimmune and hereditary pancreatitis with a focus on neutrophil granulocytes and neutrophil serine proteases

Abstract

Hereditary and autoimmune pancreatitis are two rare forms of inflammatory pancreatic disorders. Both share similarities with acute, acute recurrent, and chronic pancreatitis. Regarding their pathogenesis, the premature activation of the digestive protease trypsinogen and the infiltration of inflammatory cells such as polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages into the pancreas are highly relevant and can reciprocally amplify inflammation. Neutrophil serine proteases are the main components of neutrophil granulocytes and have different pro-inflammatory effects in many diseases. However, their role in pancreatitis is still limited. This section focuses on known findings regarding the role of this group of enzymes in hereditary and autoimmune pancreatitis.