What cellular mechanisms contribute to pancreatitis?
Several cellular mechanisms contribute to the development of pancreatitis: - Autodigestion: Premature activation of digestive enzymes within the pancreas leads to self-digestion and tissue damage. - Inflammatory response: Activated pancreatic stellate cells and infiltrating immune cells release cytokines and chemokines, perpetuating the inflammatory cycle. - Oxidative stress: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated during inflammation cause cellular damage and exacerbate the disease.