Journal of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases & Disorders

Genetic Susceptibility and Environmental Triggers in the Development of Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Abstract

Zhaohai Lao

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), including Crohn's Disease (CD) and Ulcerative Colitis (UC), is a chronic inflammatory condition of the gastrointestinal tract influenced by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. This review explores the current understanding of genetic susceptibility and environmental triggers in the development of IBD. Advances in genomic research have identified numerous susceptibility loci, highlighting the role of genes involved in immune regulation and epithelial barrier function. Concurrently, environmental factors such as diet, microbiota, smoking, and stress have been shown to significantly modulate disease onset and progression. Understanding the interplay between genetic and environmental factors is crucial for developing targeted prevention and treatment strategies for IBD.