The latest data on the pathogenesis of ulcer disease is presented in this text, with the emphasis that an understanding of the pathogenesis and etiology of ulcer diseases represents the most rational approach to pharmacology - the prevention and treatment of ulcer disease. Early and late biochemical and functional changes, morphologic stages of the injury and healing phases, as well as vascular factors in ulceration are highlighted. In addition, new pathogenetic elements on neuroendocrine and other endogenous modulators and circadian rhythms in ulcerogenesis are covered. The section on new pharmacology consists of several chapters presenting new animal models of gastric, small intestinal and colonic ulcers because in vivo models represent the basis to test and accurately detect new antiulcer drugs. A large series of chapters cover new drugs for ulcer prevention and treatment. This book is indispensible to investigators in basic and applied research, academic and industrial pharmacologists and clinicians in gastroenterology.
