A Novel Rabbit Model for Benign Biliary Stricture Formation and the Effects of Medication Infusions on Stricture...

Area of Science:

• Gastroenterology and Hepatology
• Surgical Research
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Benign biliary stricture (BBS) presents a significant clinical challenge due to its refractory nature and lack of effective recurrence prevention strategies.
• Current therapeutic options for BBS are limited, highlighting the need for novel treatment approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a novel rabbit model for benign biliary stricture (BBS) to facilitate research into treatment strategies.
• To investigate the efficacy of local biliary infusion with anti-proliferative medications in treating BBS.

Main Methods:

• A BBS model was created in rabbits through surgical injury and biliary infection, with a biliary infusion tube placed in the common bile duct.
• Post-surgery, rabbits received daily biliary infusions of Rapamycin, Pirfenidone, or Fasudil for four weeks, with subsequent assessment of bile duct wall thickness and luminal area.

Main Results:

• The novel BBS rabbit model demonstrated high success rates, with all rabbits developing strictures.
• Biliary infusion with Rapamycin or Pirfenidone significantly reduced bile duct wall thickness and increased luminal area compared to saline controls.
• Treatment with Rapamycin or Pirfenidone decreased proliferation markers (PCNA, Collagen I) and fibrogenic mediators (ACTA2, TGF-beta).

Conclusions:

• A new, effective animal model for benign biliary stricture (BBS) has been successfully established.
• Local biliary infusion of Rapamycin or Pirfenidone demonstrates potential in limiting BBS by inhibiting bile duct wall proliferation.
• This approach may offer a promising new strategy for preventing biliary restenosis after BBS.