Etiology of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Gene, Microbe & Environment Interactions

The problem

Approximately 170,000 Canadians have inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), one of the highest levels of the disease in the world. Alberta has one of the highest incidences of the disease in Canada, affecting tens of thousands in this province. IBD is incurable and its cause unknown. It affects a patient's gut, resulting in pain, bleeding, anemia, and weight loss. Patients are often on medication for their entire lives.

The team

This team is composed of 22 clinicians and scientists from the University of Calgary, University of Alberta, University of Toronto, University of Manitoba, and Alberta Health and Wellness.

The plan

This team will study genes, environmental exposures, and microorganisms as essential interacting elements in the development of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, and find new ways to categorize, treat, predict outcomes, and prevent IBD.

The outcomes

The team will create a permanent legacy for researchers in Alberta by providing a comprehensive database and DNA bank. The team will also train and mentor students, thus building capacity in interdisciplinary research.

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