Heat shock proteins and the pancreas.

Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are cytoprotective molecules that help to maintain the metabolic and structural integrity of cells. In this review, we briefly discuss the regulation and function of HSPs. The review focuses on the current knowledge of pancreatic HSP induction, the HSP level changes during acute pancreatitis, the potential effects of the pre- and co-induction of HSPs in experimental acute pancreatitis, and the mechanisms by which HSPs might mediate cellular protection.