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Updated: May 18, 2026
10:37
Perturbations of Circulating miRNAs in Irritable Bowel Syndrome Detected Using a Multiplexed High-throughput Gene Expression Platform
Published on: November 30, 2016
Irritable bowel syndrome; update on pathophysiology and management
Eamonn M M Quigley1, Orla F Craig
1University College Cork, Alimentary Pharmabiotic Centre, Cork, Ireland. e.quigley@ucc.ie
Summary
Post-infectious irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) highlights the role of gut bacteria in IBS development. Research now focuses on the gut microbiome and immune responses, seeking effective treatments for this common gastrointestinal disorder.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Immunology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a prevalent gastrointestinal disorder with limited effective treatments.
- Post-infectious IBS suggests a link between bacterial gastroenteritis and IBS development.
- The enteric flora and host immune response are increasingly recognized as key factors in IBS pathophysiology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of the gut microbiome and immune system in the development of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- To review the current understanding of IBS pathophysiology and therapeutic options.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on IBS, focusing on post-infectious IBS, gut microbiota, and immune responses.
- Analysis of findings from animal models and human studies.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests immune dysfunction in IBS patients, but microbiota characterization is limited by methodological challenges.
- Probiotics and antibiotics show consistent benefits, hinting at the microbiome's therapeutic potential.
- Despite prevalence, effective IBS treatments remain scarce, with new agents in clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Further research into IBS pathophysiology and its links with other disorders is crucial for developing effective drug therapies.
- Understanding the gut microbiome and immune interactions is key to unlocking new IBS treatment strategies.
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