Gastrointestinal Disorders

First randomized trial finds singing therapy for chronic belching

A new randomized clinical trial suggests that singing therapy provides greater short-term symptom relief and improved quality of life compared to diaphragmatic breathing exercises for people with supragastric belching. Structured singing therapy also resulted in higher response rates and more enjoyable experiences among patients.

New experimental model can accelerate next-gen allergy treatments

Researchers developed a new mouse model that closely reproduces eosinophilic gastritis, identifying key immune pathways and mechanisms behind the disease. The study provides a biological explanation for therapies targeting IL-4Rα, suggesting potential improvements in treatment precision.

Korea University Anam Hospital opens Korea’s first Center for Refractory Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

The center aims to address the structural gap in care delivery by offering advanced functional diagnostics, individualized treatment planning, surgical intervention, and long-term management. Led by Professor Sungsoo Park, it provides objective, precision-based diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies for patients with refractory GERD.

Forus and American Gastroenterological Association announce strategic partnership to improve medication access for GI patients

The partnership aims to streamline prior authorizations, appeals, and financial assistance, addressing delays or denials in accessing prescribed therapies. By combining AGA's clinical leadership with Forus's medication access platform, the collaboration seeks to enhance patient advocacy and access to effective treatments.

Gut bacteria linked to malnutrition may pass to younger generations

A new study found that specific gut bacteria from children with stunted growth can be passed to their offspring, causing inflammation and damage to the intestinal lining. The researchers identified Campylobacter concisus as a key contributor to this process, which may hold promise for future treatment and prevention strategies.

Oyster meat may provide a sustainable solution for intestinal inflammation

Researchers have found that oyster meat extract can effectively reduce TNF-α-induced intestinal inflammation by interrupting NF-kB signalling pathways and decreasing COX-2 enzyme expression. This natural supplement has potential as a sustainable solution for managing chronic inflammatory diseases.

Multi-omics study reveals new drivers of rare polyposis syndrome Cronkhite–Canada syndrome

A multi-omics study identifies the TNF-α/IL-1β/PGE₂ axis as a driver of mucus overproduction and colonic lesion formation in Cronkhite–Canada syndrome. The study reveals extensive epithelial remodeling, goblet cell hyperplasia, and an inflammatory colonic epithelial cell subset characterized by high expression of lipocalin-2.

UofL scientists unlock gut-healing power of fruits and nuts paired with the right gut microbes

Scientists discovered a natural microbial compound that protects the gut and supports future treatments for inflammatory bowel disease. UroA activates a protective pathway in intestinal epithelial cells, triggering the release of molecules associated with maintaining normal intestinal function and repairing the gut lining.

Red meat may worsen IBD — here’s what could help

A new study found that beef protein worsens gut inflammation in mice with IBD, while pea protein shows protective effects. The research suggests that dietary protein source plays a key role in shaping gut health.

Research highlighting estrogen link could explain why women are more likely to suffer from Crohn’s

Scientists discovered a direct link between estrogen and gut inflammation in Crohn's disease. The study used zebrafish models to show that estrogen signalling plays a crucial role in maintaining normal gut health. This finding could lead to more personalized approaches to treatment, especially for females affected by the disease.

SickKids-led research uncovers new genetic cause of Crohn’s disease

Researchers have identified a previously unknown genetic cause of Crohn’s disease and uncovered its link to inflammation through the RIPK1 pathway. This discovery may guide more precise treatments and improve patient matching based on unique biology.

Paneth cell metaplasia may act as a protective response in ulcerative colitis

Researchers discovered Paneth cell metaplasia can act as a protective response in ulcerative colitis by promoting healing and regeneration of the intestinal lining through REG3A. However, persistent changes may still carry risks, including increased cancer risk.

Gastric Residual Volume Assessment in Critically Ill Children

A study found that regularly assessing gastric residual volume in critically ill children being enterally fed significantly improved nutritional achievement at 72 hours. Not routine assessments every 6 hours had similar results, demonstrating noninferiority.

Decades old puzzle solved as scientists uncover cause of inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers identified a driver of inflammatory bowel disease, a group of biologically distinct diseases driven by different underlying mechanisms. Autoimmune responses to interleukin-10 lead to uncontrolled inflammation in ~3.5% of IBD patients, carrying a genetic variant linked to severe disease.

Treatment with 9-mg mazdutide for weight reduction in Chinese adults with obesity

Mazdutide, a GLP-1 receptor dual agonist, provides clinically meaningful weight reduction in Chinese adults with obesity. However, gastrointestinal adverse reactions are more common among those taking the drug compared to placebo.

Study: Key to managing leaky gut could lie in common compound we’re already eating

A study published in Nature Communications reveals that phytic acid, found in plant-rich diets, activates a cellular regulator to maintain intestinal barrier function. This finding offers a promising natural solution for managing leaky gut and its link to chronic conditions.

Comparative safety of robotic-assisted vs laparoscopic cholecystectomy in contemporary practice

A national analysis found that robotic-assisted cholecystectomy remained linked to increased bile duct injury risks despite growing use. The study suggests small differences in overall complication rates between approaches.

New urine test provides simple way to screen for autism in children

A new screening tool tests for microbial metabolites in urine to identify children at risk for autism, with 90% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The test may guide more targeted interventions, including approaches to restore a healthy gut microbiome.

Cincinnati scientists develop human gut organoids with functional nerves that can be mass produced

Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have developed a new method to produce large, functional human gut organoids with nerve cells, growing them twice as fast as previous methods. These organoids can now be used for patching damage or restoring diminished functions of the small intestine, stomach, or colon.

ASCO 2026: Oral drug proved highly effective against chemotherapy-related low platelets in GI cancer trial

A phase 2 clinical trial found that 65% of patients receiving avatrombopag met key treatment goals, compared to 17% of those receiving placebo treatment. The oral medication has been shown to be effective in maintaining platelet counts needed to continue chemotherapy as scheduled.

Decoding Inflammatory Bowel Disease – on a chip

A new study replicated patient- and sex-specific hallmarks of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) in a human organ chip, identifying stromal fibroblasts as key drivers of inflammation, fibrosis, and enhanced cancer risk. The model also recapitulated the impact of pregnancy hormones on IBD severity in female patients.

Links discovered between mitochondrial lipid deficiency and inflammation of the gut

A study published in Nature Metabolism has found a crucial link between mitochondrial lipid deficiency and gut inflammation, revealing that cardiolipin plays a key role in maintaining immune homeostasis. The research suggests that targeting the metabolism of immune cells could be a new approach to treating inflammatory bowel diseases.

Body weight affects your gut microbiota

ASCO 2026 Tip Sheet - Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center

Researchers at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center presented several studies at ASCO 2026 exploring new treatment options for patients with advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) and melanoma. These include velzatinib, a targeted therapy for GIST patients, and PRAME-directed T-cell receptor therapies for synovial sarcoma.

Better together: New combination therapy improves outcomes in the most difficult-to-treat patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Researchers have developed a new combination therapy that shows promising results in treating patients with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. The treatment, which combines two mechanisms of action, has been shown to improve clinical remission rates by more than 20 percentage points compared to existing therapies.

Biodegradable, all-metal microrobots could transform drug delivery and biopsy procedures

Researchers have developed a new class of biodegradable, all-metal microrobots that can penetrate tissue and deliver medications without causing damage. These microrobots demonstrate both strength and safety in testing on mice, paving the way for potential applications in drug delivery and biopsy procedures.

Chinese Medical Journal article explores the mechanism of GADD45B in intestinalischemia/reperfusion

Research finds GADD45B induces MST1 expression by promoting DNA demethylation, exacerbating apoptosis and intestinal injury in I/R. GADD45B/TET1/MST1 axis may represent a viable therapeutic strategy for I/R injury.

Disease-causing pathogen rewires gut metabolism to secure nutrients for growth: Study

Researchers at Vanderbilt University Medical Center discovered that enterotoxigenic Bacteroides fragilis reshapes intestinal cell metabolism to support its growth, causing diseases like diarrhea and colorectal cancer. The study provides new possibilities for intervention by targeting metabolic interactions between host and microbes.

UH researchers discover potential breakthrough for Crohn’s disease treatment

Researchers from UH, Baylor College of Medicine and MD Anderson Cancer Center propose a new treatment approach for Crohn's disease by targeting the stress signal that fuels inflammation. They found that repurposing two existing cancer medications can promote natural repair and regeneration of the intestinal lining.

Yes, that late-night snacking is probably messing up your gut

A new study suggests that eating late at night can disrupt bowel function and lead to constipation and diarrhea. Individuals who experienced high levels of chronic stress and ate more than 25% of daily calories after 9pm were more likely to report bowel problems, highlighting the impact of meal timing on gut health.

Study finds sex- and race-based disparities in IBS diagnosis rates among US adults

A national survey found significant disparities in IBS diagnosis across sex and racial groups in the US. Men and Black patients are less likely to receive a formal diagnosis compared to women and white patients, despite similar reported healthcare-seeking behavior and symptom severity.

Antidepressant unable to prevent chemotherapy-associated nerve damage

A randomized trial found that duloxetine does not prevent painful neuropathy caused by oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy in patients with stage II or III colorectal cancer. The study suggests that duloxetine should only be used for managing existing neuropathy, not prevention.

Loss of microbiota alters the profile of cells that protect the intestinal wall

A study led by UNICAMP researchers found that decreased bacteria in the large intestine affects nutrient absorption, particularly in older adults. The research showed a dual function of a previously thought mucus-secreting cell, which absorbs nutrients and regulates its abundance with gut microbiota signals.

GLP-1 receptor agonists and noncardiometabolic outcomes

A meta-analysis of GLP-1 receptor agonist studies found potential safety signals for gastrointestinal side effects, while some evidence suggested a link to reduced respiratory disease risk. Further research is needed to confirm the latter association.

Danish researchers secure multi-million-dollar grant to study Crohn’s disease in its earliest stages from the Helmsley Charitable Trust

Researchers at Aalborg University aim to identify biological changes driving disease development with a comprehensive pre-diagnostic study of early Crohn's disease. They will analyze thousands of blood samples from patients prior to diagnosis to develop a predictive model.

How fetal reversion supports intestinal regeneration and preserves stem cells

Researchers from Institute of Science Tokyo discovered a unique mechanism in which conventional stem cells can temporarily switch into a specialized regenerative state called revival stem cells, driving tissue repair. This process, known as fetal reversion, enables efficient regeneration without exhausting the stem cell pool.

Fiber in whole wheat foods protects against gut inflammation in mice, study finds

Researchers found that metabolism of wheat fiber by intestinal bacteria generated bioactive anti-inflammatory metabolites, including polyphenols, which reprogrammed intestinal immune cells to suppress inflammation. The study suggests eating whole wheat foods may reduce one’s risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Phase 3 study: New therapy keeps gastrointestinal cancer care on course when low platelets are an obstacle

A phase 3 clinical trial found romiplostim significantly reduced chemotherapy dose delays and improved platelet counts in patients with gastrointestinal cancers who developed persistent low platelet counts during treatment. The therapy enables patients to maintain chemotherapy intensity, potentially preserving the integrity of cancer c...

Early life stress linked to long-lasting digestive issues

A new study suggests that early life stress during pregnancy and early childhood can lead to long-term digestive issues, including gut pain and motility challenges. The research found that early life stress can shape the development of gut-brain communication, contributing to gastrointestinal symptoms in both mice and humans.

An experimental model reproduces creeping fat associated with Crohn's disease and facilitates its study

A new experimental rat model reproduces creeping fat in Crohn's disease, characterized by mesocolic adipose tissue hyperplasia with macroscopic, histological, immunological, and molecular similarities to human disease. The model supports the hypothesis that intestinal microbiota contributes to remodelling of mesenteric adipose tissue.

Gut bacteria drive process that protects colon tissue

Researchers at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have discovered that gut bacteria produce nicotinic acid, a molecule that activates a protective mechanism in colon cells, reducing the risk of tissue injury and disease. This finding has important implications for understanding how intestinal disorders, such as Crohn's disease, develop.

Hidden blood mutations may be driving severe IBD — IU team uncovers new treatment target

Researchers identified a link between clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) and IBD severity. Using a drug called APX3330, the team reduced inflammation and restored colon health in mouse models.

New trial seeks to improve sharing of genetic colorectal cancer risks

A new clinical study aims to improve communication between patients and families about genetic risks of colorectal cancer. The trial will compare two methods of sharing genetic test results with close relatives, with the goal of learning which approach helps more family members get necessary genetic testing.

Mount Sinai and King Saud University Medical City forge a three-year collaboration to advance precision medicine in familial inflammatory bowel disease

The collaboration aims to understand why IBD runs in some Saudi families and develop personalized treatment options. By studying well-characterized families with multiple members affected, researchers hope to identify exposure and biological markers that drive disease mechanisms and outcomes.

Gastrointestinal toxicity linked to targeted cancer therapies in the United States

A new study examines the mechanisms, clinicopathological features, and management strategies of GI toxicity induced by targeted cancer therapies. The authors highlight the importance of close collaboration between oncologists, gastroenterologists, and pathologists to ensure accurate diagnosis.

FAU researchers discover novel bacteria in Florida’s stranded pygmy sperm whales

Researchers have identified three previously unknown genotypes of Helicobacter bacteria in pygmy sperm whales stranded along the southeastern US coast. The discovery raises new questions about microbial pathogens on ocean health and their impact on vulnerable species.

Study finds lack of Angptl4 gene triggers long-term protection against inflammatory bowel disease by reprogramming the immune system

Researchers found that mice without the ANGPTL4 gene were protected from intestinal inflammation and colon tumors due to altered macrophage behavior. The study suggests that early-life inflammatory events can shape long-term immune programming, providing resistance to future challenges.

Bioengineers discover new clues in early-onset colorectal cancer

A study by University of Texas at Dallas bioengineers found that both cancerous and noncancerous colon tissue from young patients with colorectal cancer was mechanically stiffer than in older patients. This stiffness may promote the development of early-onset colorectal cancer, a condition rising over the past 30 years.

Landmark review proposing new framework to optimize immunotherapy for gastrointestinal cancers

A new framework proposes a 'three-strata' model to classify gastrointestinal tract cancers, guiding more precise and effective strategies. The review advocates for chemotherapy-free approaches in highly immunogenic tumors and explores optimized combinations with chemotherapy for intermediate-sensitive tumors.

Children with Crohn’s have distinct gut bacteria from kids with other digestive disorders

A study by NYU researchers found that children with Crohn’s disease have a unique microbiome signature, characterized by more pro-inflammatory and less protective bacteria. This could lead to personalized treatments for pediatric Crohn’s disease.

Bacterial hitchhikers can give their hosts super strength

A Dartmouth study found that plasmids can form tight clusters within bacterial communities, making them resistant to antibiotics and clinical treatments. This phenomenon introduces a new avenue for bacterial infections to become more difficult to treat.

Mobile ‘endoscopy on wheels’ brings lifesaving GI care to rural South Africa

A mobile endoscopy team performed over 500 procedures in rural hospitals across Western Cape, South Africa, revealing a high burden of treatable gastrointestinal diseases. The program substantially reduced patient travel, improving continuity of care and early cancer detection.

Glowing bacterial sensors detect gut illness in mice before symptoms emerge

Researchers have engineered gut bacteria that dim their fluorescent glow in the presence of illness, allowing for early detection of gut conditions. The developed biosensor can provide continuous monitoring through stool samples and pick up subtle changes in gut health before symptoms develop.

Lab-grown mini-stomachs could boost understanding of rare diseases

Researchers created pea-sized mini-stomachs with three main regions, replicating human stomach function and acid secretion. The study models a rare genetic disease, paving the way for personalized treatment and accelerated clinical approval.

How a single gene shapes gut health and IBD risk

Researchers at UC Riverside find that faulty gene PTPN2 increases susceptibility to harmful bacteria like AIEC, leading to gut inflammation and IBD. The studies suggest that restoring PTPN2 function or using medications like JAK inhibitors may help control harmful bacterial growth.

Replacing microbiota makes aging intestines young again

A study published in Stem Cell Reports suggests that transferring young microbiota to the intestines of older mice can speed up healing and improve the regenerative potential of intestinal stem cells. This approach may have implications for treating gut-related conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease.

DNA ties gut motility to vitamin B1

A new study found that genetic differences in vitamin B1 transport and activation are linked to bowel movement frequency, highlighting potential new pathways for research on gut motility disorders. The analysis also supports the idea of a biological overlap between bowel movement frequency and IBS.

Fat surrounding the colon interacts with the immune system

Research reveals that fat located near the colon contains an unusually high number of inflammatory fat cells and immune cells, suggesting a unique function in communicating with the immune system in the gut region. This tissue may be an adaptation to the gut microbiome and could contribute to amplifying or sustaining inflammation.

Lifesaving breakthrough in bacterial behavior

Researchers have made a groundbreaking discovery about how bacteria swim upstream to cause infections, pointing to new designs for biomedical devices that can prevent contamination. The study found that wider channels with faster counterflows are more prone to invasion, but sharp corner designs can inhibit bacterial growth.

Control valve discovered in gut’s plumbing system

Researchers uncover a key ion channel, TRPM4, that regulates intestinal fluid balance and identify a new druggable site. This discovery provides a blueprint for designing targeted treatments for gastrointestinal disorders.