Abstract: Disclosed herein are microfluidic devices that may be used to mimic human organ systems, in particular, pancreatic function, and methods of using same. In particular, disclosed are microfluidic devices that may include a first chamber having a plurality of pancreatic ductal epithelial cells (PDECs), a second chamber having a plurality of pancreatic islets, and a permeable membrane fluidly connecting the chambers. The disclosed devices and methods may be used for the study of pancreatic cell function, for the development of therapeutics, or for the development of personalized therapeutics wherein the cells of the device are obtained from an individual in need of such treatment.

Abstract: Methods and compositions for treating or preventing diarrhea are disclosed. The methods comprise administering to an individual a therapeutically effective amount of an LPA2 receptor agonist for treating or preventing diarrhea. Also disclosed is a method of inhibiting CFTR activation by administering at least one LPA2 receptor agonist in an amount effective to inhibit formation of a macromolecular complex between the LPA2 receptor, CFTR, and a Na+/H+ exchange regulatory factor-2 (NHERF-2).