There’s been quite a few discoveries and advances in research on IBD lately, with some possibilities for new treatments as well. That’s exciting news! Some of the things that have happened in 2023 – 2024 include positive outcomes with stem cell therapy, an oral medication to treat Crohn’s Disease, and discovery of a genetic pathway that can increase risk for IBD and other inflammatory diseases, and indicates that targeted treatments for that area are possible. [disclaimer: I am only a layperson so if my wording isn’t exactly right, please forgive me]
Enter the newest study!
From Massachusetts General Hospital: “A new study by investigators from Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH), a founding member of the Mass General Brigham, reveals that particular strains of gut bacteria are linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), a condition that affects millions of people and is increasing in prevalence. The findings, which are published in Cell Host & Microbe, could lead to new diagnostics and treatments.”
Key Takeaways
- A new study identifies particular strains of gut bacteria that are more prominent in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) a condition that affects millions
- The researchers analyzed the bacterial populations of thousands of IBD patients and healthy controls, revealing hundreds of disease-associated strains
- During heightened bouts of IBD-related inflammation, these disease-associated strains outcompeted their healthy counterparts, suggesting they have a genetic survival advantage
So what does this mean?
Right now, not too much. All of these discoveries are new, as of this year, and that means that it will take time for research and trials and whatever else specifically needs to happen for any of these to benefit folks with IBD. But every revelation adds up and gives us a better picture of what we can do to treat it – and if we’re lucky, brings us closer to a cure.
The drug I’m on, Stelara, was in use for psoriasis first. It wasn’t approved for Crohn’s until 2016, seven years after. It takes time for these things, which sucks because we really want more options but being cautious is safer.
There could be new options happening within a timeframe that could be helpful for me, and definitely helpful for others to come. We could be closer to a cure. That gives me hope.
When you deal with an incurable disease, hope is sometimes difficult to come by. The announcements we’re had lately are good news! I’ll keep talking about them and whatever else 2024 has to offer as new details emerge.
