The importance of SPINK1 for pancreatic health is demonstrated by the association of SPINK1 gene mutations (N34S, P55S, IVS3 + 2TC, and others) with increased risk for several forms of chronic pancreatitis (Pfützer et al., 2000; Witt et al., 2000; Raphael and Willingham, 2016). The gene discussed is SPINK1; the disease is chronic pancreatitis.