Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the colon, which is the central part of the intestine. It is one of the two major forms of inflammatory bowel disease, the other being Crohn’s disease. Ulcerative colitis is characterized by inflammation and ulcers in the lining of the colon, causing symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding. It is a complex disease with multiple factors involved, including genetic and environmental factors.

The frequency of ulcerative colitis varies from country to country, with higher prevalence rates reported in North America and Europe. The exact causes of the disease are unknown, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors. Many genes have been identified as being associated with ulcerative colitis, and research in this field continues to uncover more genes involved in the disease.

There are several resources available for those seeking more information on ulcerative colitis. PubMed, a database of scientific articles, provides a wide range of references and clinical trials related to the disease. The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database also offers information on the genetic factors associated with ulcerative colitis. In addition, there are advocacy and support groups such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation that provide resources and support for patients with ulcerative colitis.

Overall, ulcerative colitis is a common disease that affects the functioning of the colon. It is important to stay informed about this condition and seek appropriate medical care. Additional research and genetic testing studies are being conducted to better understand the causes and develop more effective treatments for ulcerative colitis.

Frequency

Ulcerative colitis is a relatively common inflammatory disease of the colon. It affects the innermost lining of the colon and rectum, causing inflammation and ulcers. The frequency of this condition varies among different populations.

Several scientific studies have examined the frequency of ulcerative colitis in different populations and have found variations. For example, a study by Parkes et al. (2009) reported that ulcerative colitis had a frequency ranging from 0.5 to 24.5 per 100,000 individuals. The frequency was reported to be higher in Western countries compared to Eastern countries.

Multiple factors may contribute to the frequency of ulcerative colitis. Genetic inheritance plays a role, as the disease has been shown to cluster in families. Some genes associated with ulcerative colitis have been identified through scientific research, including the NOD2 gene and the IL23R gene. However, these genes explain only a small portion of the genetic risk for the disease.

In addition to genetic factors, environmental factors also play a role in the frequency of ulcerative colitis. Diet, smoking, and exposure to certain infections have all been implicated as possible triggers for the development of the disease. However, the exact causes of ulcerative colitis are still not fully understood.

The frequency of ulcerative colitis can also vary based on ethnicity. For example, individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent have a higher risk of developing ulcerative colitis compared to the general population. Other factors, such as age and gender, can also influence the frequency of the disease, with a higher incidence seen in younger individuals and in males.

It is important to note that the frequency of ulcerative colitis may be underestimated due to underdiagnosis or misdiagnosis. Some individuals may have milder forms of the disease that go undetected or may be misdiagnosed with other gastrointestinal conditions.

To learn more about the frequency of ulcerative colitis and to find additional information, resources, and support, you can visit various advocacy and patient support organizations such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organization.

Causes

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the colon, which is a part of the large intestine. The exact cause of UC is still unknown, but it is believed to be a multifactorial disease with a combination of genetic, environmental, and immunological factors contributing to its development.

Genetic factors have been found to play a significant role in the development of UC. Studies have shown that individuals who have a family history of UC are more likely to develop the condition themselves. It is estimated that around 10-20% of people with UC have a first-degree relative (parent, sibling, or child) who also has the disease.

Recent research has identified specific genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing UC. A consortium of scientists led by Professor John Parkes and Professor Miles Parkes at Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the University of Cambridge, conducted genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and identified over 200 genetic regions that are involved in UC. These genes are often related to the immune system and its function, indicating that an overactive immune response in the intestine may be a key factor in the development of UC.

In addition to genetic factors, environmental factors also play a role in the development of UC. Certain lifestyle and dietary factors have been found to increase the risk of developing UC. Smoking, for example, has been shown to be a risk factor for the development of UC, with smokers being more likely to develop the condition than non-smokers. Other environmental factors, such as pollution and certain infections, may also contribute to the development of UC, although more research is needed to understand their exact role.

Immunologically, UC is characterized by an abnormal immune response in the colon. The immune cells in the colon, called T-cells, become activated and release inflammatory cytokines, causing chronic inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal lining. This inflammatory response is believed to be triggered by a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

In conclusion, the exact causes of UC are still not fully understood. However, research has identified a significant genetic component, as well as environmental and immunological factors, that contribute to the development of this condition. Further studies are needed to fully understand the complex interplay between these factors and develop more effective treatments for UC.

References:

  • Phillips A, Gibson PR, Rosella O, Dijkstra G, Baumgart DC. Ulcerative Colitis. Nature Reviews Disease Primers. 2015;1:15045.
  • Xavier RJ, Podolsky DK. Unraveling the Pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Nature. 2007;448(7152):427-434.
  • Radford-Smith GL. What Have We Learnt from the Large IBD Consortia? J Gastroenterol Hepatol. 2018;33(1):16-19.

Learn more about the genes associated with Ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the colon (large intestine) and rectum. It is believed to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Many scientific studies and research have been conducted to understand the genetic basis of this condition.

Research has identified several genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing ulcerative colitis. These genes are involved in regulating the immune response and inflammation in the intestine.

One of the most common genes associated with ulcerative colitis is the NOD2/CARD15 gene. Variations in this gene have been found to be more prevalent in individuals with ulcerative colitis compared to those without the disease. Other genes that have been linked to ulcerative colitis include IL23R, ATG16L1, and XBP1.

Genetic studies have also shown that ulcerative colitis has a complex inheritance pattern. It is considered a polygenic disease, meaning that multiple genes contribute to its development. In addition to these genes, environmental factors such as diet and lifestyle may also play a role in the development of ulcerative colitis.

Understanding the genetic factors involved in ulcerative colitis can help in the development of better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies. Genetic testing may be available for individuals with a family history of ulcerative colitis or those who have been diagnosed with the condition.

For more information about the genes associated with ulcerative colitis, you can refer to scientific research articles and studies. PubMed and ClinicalTrials.gov are valuable resources for accessing peer-reviewed research and clinical trials related to ulcerative colitis and its genetic factors.

References and additional information can be found in the resources provided by advocacy organizations such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and the International IBD Genetics Consortium. The Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database is also a useful tool for finding information on the genetic basis of various diseases, including ulcerative colitis.

Inheritance

Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a complex condition with a central role for genetic factors in its inheritance. Research has shown that there is a strong genetic component to the development of UC. Several specific genes have been identified as being involved in the inflammatory response in the intestine, which is a key feature of the condition.

One of the most well-studied genes associated with UC is the NOD2 gene. Mutations in this gene have been found to increase the risk of developing the disease. Other genes, such as IL23R and ATG16L1, have also been implicated in the development of UC.

See Also:  Russell-Silver syndrome

Additional studies have shown that there are likely many other genetic factors involved in the inheritance of UC. The Genetics Consortium of the Inflammatory Bowel Disease has been conducting large-scale genetic studies to identify these genetic factors. The consortium has published numerous scientific articles on the topic, providing valuable information on the genetic basis of UC.

Genetic testing is not yet commonly used for diagnosing UC, but it may be considered for individuals with a family history of the condition or for those with an early onset of the disease. Testing can help determine the risk of developing UC and may also provide information about treatment options.

There are several resources available for individuals with UC and their families to learn more about the genetic factors involved in the inheritance of the disease. The National Institutes of Health’s PubMed and OMIM databases provide access to scientific articles and other information on the genetic basis of UC. The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center and the National Organization for Rare Disorders also offer educational resources and support for patients and families affected by UC.

Advocacy groups, such as the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, offer support and resources for individuals with UC and their families. ClinicalTrials.gov provides information about clinical trials studying the genetic and environmental factors contributing to the development of UC.

In conclusion, UC is a complex disease with a strong genetic component. Ongoing research is shedding light on the specific genes and genetic factors involved in the inheritance of UC. Genetic testing and resources are available to support individuals with UC and their families in learning more about the genetic basis of the disease and exploring treatment options.

Other Names for This Condition

  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Colitis, ulcerative
  • UC
  • Inflammatory bowel disease type 1
  • IBD1
  • Intestinal bowel disease, inflammatory, 1
  • ILC1

Ulcerative colitis, also known as colitis, ulcerative, is a genetic condition that affects the tissue lining the colon and rectum. It is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and is characterized by chronic inflammation of the intestine.

This condition is most commonly found in individuals of European descent, but it can occur in people of any ethnicity. The frequency of ulcerative colitis varies across different populations, and it is more common in developed countries.

The exact causes of ulcerative colitis are not fully understood, but both genetic and environmental factors are believed to play a role in its development. Research studies have identified several genes that are associated with the condition, including genes involved in immune system function and tissue inflammation.

One of the central resources for information on ulcerative colitis is the Ulcerative Colitis Genetics Consortium, which has collected genetic data from thousands of patients with the disease. This consortium has cataloged and studied the genes involved in ulcerative colitis, providing valuable insights into its inheritance patterns and possible causes.

Support and advocacy organizations, such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation, provide resources and information for patients with ulcerative colitis, including information on clinical trials and genetic testing options.

References to scientific articles and studies on ulcerative colitis can be found in databases such as PubMed and OMIM. These resources can help researchers and clinicians learn more about the condition, its associated genetic factors, and potential treatment options.

Additional Information Resources

  • Learn more about Ulcerative Colitis from reputable sources:
    • The Radford-Smith Lab at the University of Queensland offers valuable information on the causes, frequency, and treatment of Ulcerative Colitis. Visit their website at www.radford-smith.org.
    • The Parkes Lab, led by Dr. Miles Parkes, is a research lab focused on the genetics of inflammatory bowel diseases. Check out their publications and studies on Ulcerative Colitis on PubMed at pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov.
    • The OMIM database provides information on the genetic factors associated with Ulcerative Colitis. To learn more, visit their website at www.omim.org.
  • Find support and advocacy resources for patients with Ulcerative Colitis:
    • The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals with Ulcerative Colitis. Learn more at www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org.
    • The Genetic Testing Registry offers information and resources on genetic testing for Ulcerative Colitis. Visit their website at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/gtr.
  • Explore other scientific resources on Ulcerative Colitis:
    • The Comparative Genomics Genet Diseases Genes Consort provides a catalog of genes and diseases, including Ulcerative Colitis. Check out their website at research.cchmc.org/CGCC/catalog/ulcerative_colitis.html.
    • The Catalog of Published Genome-Wide Association Studies provides a comprehensive list of studies related to Ulcerative Colitis. Visit their website at www.genenames.org.
    • The Scientific Commons is a collaborative research platform that offers articles and information on Ulcerative Colitis. Explore their website at www.scientificcommons.org.
  • Find clinical trials and references on Ulcerative Colitis:
    • ClinicalTrials.gov is a valuable resource for finding ongoing clinical trials related to Ulcerative Colitis. Search for trials and studies at clinicaltrials.gov.
    • The Central reference collection offers a wide range of references and articles on Ulcerative Colitis. Access their website at www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/central.

With these additional resources, you can learn more about Ulcerative Colitis, its genetic factors, available support, and ongoing research.

Genetic Testing Information

Genetic testing can provide important information about the underlying causes of ulcerative colitis, a common inflammatory bowel disease. This type of testing involves analyzing a patient’s DNA to identify genetic variants that may be associated with the condition. By studying the genetic makeup of individuals with ulcerative colitis, researchers have been able to gain insight into the pathogenesis of the disease and develop new therapeutic approaches.

Genetic studies have identified a number of genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing ulcerative colitis. These genes are involved in various biological processes, including the immune response and the function of the intestinal tissue. Some of the most common genes associated with ulcerative colitis include PARK2, NOD2, and IL23R.

One of the largest research consortiums studying the genetic basis of ulcerative colitis is the International Inflammatory Bowel Disease Genetics Consortium (IIBDGC). This consortium brings together scientists from around the world to share data and collaborate on genetic studies of inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis.

For patients who are interested in participating in genetic research, there are resources available to learn more about ongoing studies and clinical trials. ClinicalTrials.gov is a database that provides information on clinical trials, including those related to ulcerative colitis and genetics. Additionally, organizations such as the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation and the Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center offer support and information for patients interested in genetic testing.

It is important to note that genetic testing alone is not sufficient for diagnosing ulcerative colitis. The condition is diagnosed based on a combination of clinical symptoms, physical examination, and additional diagnostic tests, such as endoscopy or imaging studies. However, genetic testing can provide valuable information about a patient’s risk of developing the disease and help guide treatment decisions.

References:

  1. Brown, S. J., & Xavier, R. J. (2015). Genetics of inflammatory bowel disease. Molecular genetics and metabolism, 114(4), 513–528. doi:10.1016/j.ymgme.2014.10.002
  2. Parkes, M., & Radford-Smith, G. (2002). Genetics of inflammatory bowel disease: implications for disease pathogenesis and natural history. Expert reviews in molecular medicine, 4(21), 1–15. doi:10.1017/S1462399402005202
  3. Phillips, A. (2014). Inflammatory bowel disease: genetics and immunobiology. Seminars in pediatric surgery, 23(1), 32–35. doi:10.1053/j.sempedsurg.2013.11.009

Patient Support and Advocacy Resources

Ulcerative colitis is a condition associated with chronic inflammation of the colon and rectum. This disease affects the innermost lining of the intestine and causes ulcers, which can lead to pain, diarrhea, and bleeding. There is no single cause for ulcerative colitis, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Patients with ulcerative colitis often require support and advocacy to help them navigate their diagnosis and manage their condition. Fortunately, there are several resources available for patients and their families to access information, support, and research in relation to ulcerative colitis.

  • Scientific Literature: There are numerous scientific articles and research studies published on ulcerative colitis. These articles provide valuable information about the disease, its causes, and various treatment options. PubMed is a central database where patients can find scientific articles on ulcerative colitis and related topics.
  • Patient Support Groups: Joining a support group can be beneficial for patients with ulcerative colitis. These groups provide a platform for patients to share their experiences, seek advice, and find emotional support. Patient support groups also organize educational events and workshops to enhance knowledge about the disease and its management.
  • Genetic Testing and Counseling: Genetic factors play a significant role in ulcerative colitis. Genetic testing can help identify specific genes associated with the disease and provide information about the likelihood of developing the condition. Genetic counseling is also available to individuals and families who want to learn more about the genetic causes and inheritance patterns of ulcerative colitis.
  • Clinical Trials: Clinical trials offer opportunities for patients with ulcerative colitis to participate in research studies aimed at finding new treatments or understanding the disease better. ClinicalTrials.gov is a comprehensive resource that provides information about ongoing clinical trials recruiting participants for ulcerative colitis and other diseases.
  • Patient Advocacy Organizations: There are several advocacy organizations dedicated to supporting patients with ulcerative colitis. These organizations work towards increasing awareness about the disease, advocating for better treatment options and healthcare policies, and providing resources for patients and their families. The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, also known as the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA), is a primary advocacy organization for patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis.
See Also:  Epidermal nevus

Research Studies from ClinicalTrialsgov

Research studies conducted by clinicaltrials.gov focus on understanding various aspects of ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the colon. These studies involve testing new treatments, identifying genetic factors involved in the disease, and learning more about the causes and risk factors associated with ulcerative colitis.

One notable study is the Xavier and Brown UC Genetic Research Study, which aims to identify genes and other factors associated with ulcerative colitis inheritance. This study provides additional information on the genetic basis of the disease and its frequency in different populations.

The Phillips Colitis Genome-wide Association Study (GWAS) is another important research project that investigates the genetic factors contributing to ulcerative colitis. Through GWAS, researchers aim to identify specific genes associated with the disease and understand their role in the inflammatory process.

In addition to genetic research, clinicaltrials.gov also supports studies exploring other factors involved in ulcerative colitis. The Parkes Inflammatory Bowel Disease Study, for example, investigates the role of immune cells and inflammatory factors in the development of ulcerative colitis.

These research studies provide valuable scientific information on the causes, genetic inheritance, and associated factors of ulcerative colitis. They also offer resources for patients and advocacy groups, increasing awareness and support for this condition.

For more information and a catalog of additional articles and resources on ulcerative colitis research, visit the clinicaltrials.gov website or review the references provided by the consortium for the study of the genetic architecture of common diseases and OMIM.

Catalog of Genes and Diseases from OMIM

The Catalog of Genes and Diseases from OMIM (Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man) is a comprehensive database that provides information about genetic factors associated with various diseases, including ulcerative colitis.

In ulcerative colitis, genetic factors play a significant role in disease development and progression. The OMIM database includes a list of genes that have been associated with ulcerative colitis. These genes can be further studied and tested for their involvement in the disease through additional research and testing.

OMIM provides a wealth of information about the genes and diseases it catalogues. Each entry includes a detailed description of the gene, its function, and its associated diseases. The database also provides references to scientific articles, clinical trials, and other sources of information related to each gene and disease.

One such gene associated with ulcerative colitis is NOD2. Variants of this gene have been found to increase the risk of developing the disease. Other genes involved in the disease include HLA genes, IL23R, and ATG16L1.

OMIM also provides information about the inheritance patterns of the genes associated with ulcerative colitis. For example, NOD2 variants are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that individuals with just one copy of the variant have an increased risk of developing the disease.

In addition to gene information, OMIM provides information about the clinical features of ulcerative colitis. It describes the symptoms, pathology, and treatment options for the disease. The database also includes information about the frequency of the condition and factors that may increase the risk of developing it.

References:

  1. Xavier, R.J., Podolsky, D.K. Unravelling the Pathogenesis of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Jeon, B.-H. (ed.) Yonsei Medical Journal 48, 792–803 (2007).
  2. Radford-Smith, G., Pandeya, N., Dinjens, W.N.M., van der Woude, W.J., Israel, D., Shepherd, R., Wall, A.J., O’Brien, P.E. & Powell, E.E. Associations between NOD2/CARD15 genotype and phenotype in Crohn’s disease—Are we there yet? World Journal of Gastroenterology 13, 3760–3765 (2007).
  3. Parkes, M. et al. Sequence variants in the autophagy gene IRGM and multiple other replicating loci contribute to Crohn’s disease susceptibility. Nature Genetics 39, 830–832 (2007).
  4. Phillips, A.M. et al. CHEK2 *1100delC homozygosity in the Netherlands—Prevalence and risk of breast and lung cancer. European Journal of Human Genetics 14, 1233–1236 (2006).

For more information about Ulcerative Colitis, you can visit the following websites:

Scientific Articles on PubMed

If you want to learn more about ulcerative colitis, there are a variety of scientific articles available on PubMed, a comprehensive database of scientific literature. These articles provide valuable information about the clinical trials, genetic factors, and causes of this inflammatory disease.

One study by Phillips et al. investigated the genetic factors associated with ulcerative colitis. They found that multiple genes are involved in the inheritance of this condition and identified common genetic variants that increase the frequency of the disease. You can find more information about this study in the article titled “Genetic factors associated with ulcerative colitis” (Phillips et al., 2020).

In addition to this study, there have been other research papers published on ulcerative colitis. For example, Radford-Smith et al. conducted a consortium study to determine the genetic causes and functional implications of ulcerative colitis. Their findings suggested that certain genes and pathways play a central role in the development of the disease. You can find more information about their research in the article titled “Genetic causes and functional implications of ulcerative colitis” (Radford-Smith et al., 2018).

To support the research community, PubMed also provides access to additional resources such as the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) catalog. This catalog contains information about the genes and genetic factors associated with ulcerative colitis. It is a valuable resource for researchers and clinicians looking for more information about the disease.

Furthermore, PubMed offers clinicaltrialsgov, a database where you can find information about ongoing clinical trials related to ulcerative colitis. These trials aim to test new treatments, improve patient care, and advance our understanding of the disease. By participating in these trials, patients can contribute to the development of better therapies and help find a cure for this condition.

In conclusion, PubMed provides a wealth of scientific articles and resources for those interested in ulcerative colitis. Through these studies, researchers have been able to uncover important information about the causes, genetic inheritance, and function of the disease. By learning from these articles, we can better understand ulcerative colitis and support advocacy for improved patient care and testing.

References

Scientific research on Ulcerative Colitis

  • Radford-Smith GL. Genetic aspects of inflammatory bowel disease: ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Genet Epidemiol. 1999;16(3):327-341.
  • Xavier RJ, Podolsky DK. Unravelling the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. Nature. 2007;448(7152):427-434.
  • Parkes M, et al. Sequence variants in the autophagy gene IRGM and multiple other replicating loci contribute to Crohn’s disease susceptibility. Nat Genet. 2007;39(7):830-832.
  • Phillips A, et al. Why the more common inflammatory bowel diseases are common: mapping the genome allows the finding of biologic basis for disease. Gastroenterology. 2007;132(2):619-623.
  • Omim. Ulcerative colitis. 2021. Available from: https://www.omim.org/entry/191390. Accessed April 23, 2021.

Genetic factors

  • Consortium UC, et al. Genome-wide association defines more than 30 distinct susceptibility loci for Crohn’s disease. Nat Genet. 2008;40(8):955-962.
  • Radford-Smith GL. Genetics of inflammatory bowel disease: search for clues in primary care. Med J Aust. 2006;185(5):268-269.
  • Radford-Smith GL. Genetic susceptibility in Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis: employing molecular genetics in determining genetic markers of disease. Gut. 2002;51(1):6-8.

Clinical Trials and Patient Support

  • ClinicalTrials.gov. Ulcerative colitis. 2021. Available from: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/results?cond=ulcerative+colitis. Accessed April 23, 2021.
  • Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. Ulcerative colitis. 2021. Available from: https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/what-is-ulcerative-colitis. Accessed April 23, 2021.
  • Brown SJ, et al. Genetic testing in the evaluation of unexplained cardiac arrest: from the CASPER (Cardiac Arrest Survivors with Preserved Ejection Fraction Registry). Heart Rhythm. 2021;18(5):686-694.
  • Inflammatory Bowel Disease Support and Education Resources. 2021. Available from: http://www.ibdsupport.org. Accessed April 23, 2021.

Other Resources and Information

  • PubMed. Ulcerative colitis. 2021. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=ulcerative+colitis. Accessed April 23, 2021.
  • Radford-Smith GL. Inflammatory bowel disease: the role of genetics in the development of pathogenicity. Pathology. 2010;42(2):107-117.
  • Genetics Home Reference. Ulcerative colitis. 2021. Available from: https://ghr.nlm.nih.gov/condition/ulcerative-colitis. Accessed April 23, 2021.

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