Title:Gut Homing Molecule Regulation of the Pathogenesis and Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Volume: 14
Issue: 1
Author(s): Heather L. Evans-Marin and Yingzi Cong
Affiliation:
Keywords:
CCR9, IBD, intestines, inflammation, chemokine, T cells.
Abstract: Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic, debilitating immunological disorder for which there are few effective
treatments. New therapies targeting gut homing molecules, such as CCR9 and α4β7, are currently in development, with
some of these reaching clinical trials. Gut-trophic molecules and their receptors are critical to the development of both
tolerant and inflammatory immune responses in the gut. However, we know little regarding the function of homing
molecules as it relates to IBD. Data have suggested both pathological and protective roles for gut homing molecules in
IBD development and maintenance. In addition, recent research findings have suggested that chemokines can influence T
cell differentiation and function. Given the current clinical relevance, it is essential to obtain a better understanding of the
role of gut homing molecules in the regulation of IBD.