Genetics and pancreatic disease.

The recognition that variations in the DNA sequence of key genes predispose individuals to acute pancreatitis, chronic pancreatitis, and pancreatic cancer represents one of the greatest breakthroughs in pancreas research. This review highlights recent progress in understanding mutations in the cationic trypsinogen gene, the pancreatic secretory trypsin inhibitor gene, and the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator gene with respect to pancreatitis. It also notes progress in the use of microarray technology, classification of chronic pancreatitis, and predisposition to pancreatic cancer.