Canadian researchers have found that a specific combination of gut bacteria is present in people who develop Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, a finding that could pave the way for new treatments.
In fact, this combination of gut bacteria would be different from that found in healthy people and can be observed well before the onset of these diseases.
“We are beginning to see the pattern of bacteria that can trigger Crohn’s disease,” said lead researcher Dr. Ken Croitoru of Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto.
In his opinion, this would allow progress to be made in the development of better treatments for those suffering from these diseases, but also in the prevention of these diseases in people at risk.
- Listen to the interview with Dr. Guy Aumais, a Montreal gastroenterologist and researcher for the Crohn’s Genetic, Environmental and Microbial (GEM) Project QUB radio :
“I hope that within five years, patients will benefit, particularly with more evidence-based treatments that focus on gut bacteria or dietary changes,” the researcher said.
This discovery also affects people affected by ulcerative colitis, another incurable bowel disease.
“This discovery is an inspiration to the community of people affected by Crohn’s disease and colitis. This gives us hope for significant improvements in the care and prevention of this lifelong disease,” added Lori Radke, President and CEO of Crohn’s and Colitis Canada.
Award-winning entrepreneur. Baconaholic. Food advocate. Wannabe beer maven. Twitter ninja.
