Previously, only a few genes had been associated with the formation of metastases in colorectal cancer. Now, researchers have identified 115 genes that are disregulated both in the primary tumor and in its metastases. In the future, their findings may help identify patients with aggressive tumors at an earlier stage.
Celiac disease, an immune system reaction to gluten in the diet, is over four times more common today than it was 50 years ago, according to new findings. Undiagnosed celiac disease is associated with nearly quadrupled mortality.
In mice, scientists have shown two types of antibiotics can cause moderate to wide-ranging changes in normally diverse, beneficial gut microbes. The findings have implications for minimizing diarrhea in vulnerable patients, and for treating inflammatory bowel disease and C. difficile.
Researchers have identified a new candidate tumor suppressor gene in colorectal cancer and examined its use as a potential biomarker in stool samples, according to a new study.
Australian researchers have developed gene expression biomarkers which can accurately discriminate pre-cancerous and cancerous colorectal growths from non-cancerous controls.
A mineral found at health food stores could be the key to developing a new line of antibiotics for bacteria that commonly cause diarrhea, tooth decay and, in some severe cases, death. Selenium is found in a number of proteins. New research shows that interrupting the way selenoproteins are made can halt the growth of the super bug Clostridium difficile and Treponema denticola, a major contributor to gum disease.
An electronic diagnostic tool called the SmartPill is swallowed by patients in order to take measurements as it travels through the gastrointestinal tract. A new study by physician-scientists used the device in patients with mild to moderate ulcerative colitis (UC), determining that they have significantly more acidic pH in their colons, compared with the average person — a finding that may impact treatment strategy.
New research quantifies the precise effects of environmental pollutants and alcohol intake on gastrointestinal (GI) health. Two studies offer concrete evidence that the environment and alcohol intake can affect GI health and share important insights into new directions for future research.
Researchers have demonstrated that a noninvasive screening test can detect not only colorectal cancer but also the common cancers above the colon — including pancreas, stomach, biliary and esophageal cancers.
Researchers have discovered that the enzyme meprin has a key role in inflammatory bowel disease.
