Cholangitis is a condition characterized by inflammation of the bile ducts, which are the tubes that carry bile from the liver to the small intestine. This inflammation can be caused by a bacterial infection, obstruction of the bile ducts, or other factors. Cholangitis can lead to symptoms such as pain in the upper-right abdomen, fever, jaundice, and nausea. Treatment typically involves antibiotics to clear the infection and procedures to remove any blockages in the bile ducts. Research in this area focuses on understanding the underlying causes of cholangitis, improving diagnostic tools, and developing more effective treatments.