Researchers at the Francis Crick Institute have discovered a significant new cause of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

Through genetic analysis, they identified a section of genetic code (DNA) that is active in macrophages, a type of immune cell that causes inflammation in people with IBD.

This section of DNA is one of the main controllers of macrophages and boosts a gene called ETS2, which controls the inflammatory chemicals that macrophages release.

Higher levels of ETS2 are associated with more inflammation in the gut.

Some people have a version of the genetic code that makes their body more likely to over-respond to an inflammatory stimulus.

Currently, there are no medicines available that specifically block ETS2.

However, there are medicines used for other conditions that could switch off the inflammatory effects of ETS2.

In theory, this would reduce inflammation in the gut of people with IBD.

These medicines, known as MEK inhibitors, can have serious side effects on other parts of the body.

Therefore, the next stage of research is to find ways to target the MEK inhibitors specifically to the macrophages in the gut.

Using genetics as a starting point, the researchers have uncovered a pathway that appears to play a major role in IBD and other inflammatory diseases.

Excitingly, they have shown that this pathway can be targeted therapeutically, and they are now working on ensuring this approach is safe and effective for treating people in the future.

Any changes in treatment due to this research for people with Crohn's or Colitis are likely to be several years away.

However, researchers around the world will be interested in this research and what it means for future treatments.

The more we can understand about Inflammatory Bowel Disease, the more likely we are to help patients live well with these conditions.

This research is a significant step towards the possibility of a world free from Crohn's and Colitis one day.

Crohn’s & Colitis UK are proud to have been involved in funding this work.

Thank you to all our supporters and members who enable us to fund and support exciting research such as this study.

We know it can be difficult to live with, or support someone living with these conditions.

But you are not alone.

We provide up-to-date, evidence-based information and can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis.

Please be aware we are not medically or legally trained.

We cannot provide detailed financial or benefits advice or specialist emotional support.

Please contact us via telephone, email, or Live Chat from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday (except English bank holidays).

If you need specific medical advice about your condition, your GP or IBD team will be best placed to help.

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We provide up-to-date, evidence-based information and can support you to live well with Crohn’s or Colitis.

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