Understanding the genetic causes of inflammatory bowel disease

Identification and characterization of inflammatory bowel disease causal variants

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10849793

This study is looking at how our genes might play a role in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) in teens and young adults, and it invites patients to help by sharing genetic samples so we can better understand what causes these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10849793 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), which are chronic conditions affecting the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in adolescents and young adults. By analyzing a diverse cohort of patients from different ancestral backgrounds, the study aims to identify specific genetic variants associated with IBD and understand their functional impacts. The research employs advanced techniques, including genome-wide association studies and CRISPR-based methods, to explore how these genetic variants influence the disease. Patients may be involved in providing genetic samples to help elucidate these connections.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, particularly those from diverse ancestral backgrounds.

Not a fit: Patients with non-inflammatory bowel diseases or those without a genetic predisposition to IBD may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and targeted treatments for inflammatory bowel disease, improving patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have successfully identified genetic variants associated with IBD, but this research aims to expand on that by including diverse populations, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Autoimmune Diseases
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.