Finding inflammatory bowel disease genes will not lead to a cure

Abstract

In summary, IBD is complex, polygenic disorder with incomplete genetic penetrance and poor genotype-phenotype correlation. Ultimately, the genetic contribution to the pathogenesis of IBD may be largely permissive. There is overwhelming evidence that environmental exposure drives disease expression and natural history. Indeed, there has been an abrupt and dramatic change in the epidemiology of CD over the past 100 years that can only reflect shifts in behaviour, lifestyle and environment. Only a better understanding of early environmental triggers will allow us to prevent and cure IBD in the future. Genetics may tell us where to look for a cure, but it is environmental research that will tell us what to do. © 2006 Pulsus Group Inc. All rights reserved.