How Genes Affect Crohn’s Disease & the Microbiome

September 21st, 2016

Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammation of the lining of the digestive tract. While researchers don’t know exactly what causes Crohn’s disease, a new study found that differences in genes may play a part. Researchers looked at more than 15,000 blood samples and discovered that a genetic variation in the SLC39A8 gene is associated with Crohn’s disease. Interestingly, this genetic variation is also linked with changes in a person’s gastrointestinal or “gut” microbiome. This microbiome is made up of potentially billions of microbes that live inside the body and help to digest food, synthesize nutrients, and perform many other functions. Researchers hope that this study may lead to the development of new therapies and a better understanding of how our genes interact with our microbiomes. Read more here: http://www.upmc.com/media/NewsReleases/2016/Pages/duerr-crohnsmicrobiome-gastro.aspx.