inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

spotlight on a black background
February 28, 2019

Lighting up colorectal cancer

A nanobeacon imaging agent that binds specifically to colorectal cancer cells may aid the early detection of cancer during colonoscopy.

By Leigh MacMillan
July 19, 2018

Novel insights on “leaky” gut

A protein involved in binding cells together helps maintain the integrity of the intestinal mucosa and plays a protective role in ulcerative colitis.

By Niyati Vachharajani
tree roots
November 30, 2017

Lineage tracing in the gut

Vanderbilt investigators have developed an algorithm to classify cell types from experimental data, making it possible to understand how organs develop.

By Bill Snyder
October 26, 2017

Gut response to fluid flow

Vanderbilt researchers have discovered that microvilli – finger-like projections from cells in the intestine – respond to the shear stress of fluid flow to drive a cellular pathway that regulates nutrient balance.

By VUMC News and Communications
firefighters battle a wildfire
October 13, 2016

EGF receptor found to regulate macrophage inflammation in gut

Researchers at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine have uncovered a link between epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) signaling and the inflammatory response to bacterial infection in the gastrointestinal tract.

By Bill Snyder
July 23, 2015

Study explores protein’s role in inflammation-associated cancer

An antioxidant protein may protect against colon cancer that develops in patients with inflammatory bowel disease, suggesting new strategies for reducing colon cancer risk in these patients.

By Leigh MacMillan
April 25, 2014

Increased cell permeability may protect from colitis

Having a “leaky” gut may protect against colitis, a paradoxical finding that alters understanding of the role of cell permeability in intestinal homeostasis and immune regulation.
By Leigh MacMillan
March 1, 2013

Target for inflammatory bowel disease

The factor STAT6 appears to play a role in the pathogenesis of an inflammatory bowel disease, suggesting it may be a promising target for new treatments.
By Leigh MacMillan
April 6, 2012

Plant compound quells inflammation

Berberine, an herbal remedy for diarrhea and intestinal parasites, may be an effective treatment for gastrointestinal inflammatory diseases.
By Leigh MacMillan