Our Research

Advancing Research in IBD

At Lightner Lab, our mission is to advance the understanding and treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Through innovative research and collaborative efforts, we aim to uncover the complex mechanisms behind this growing health concern and develop new therapeutic options that enhance patient care. By focusing on the underlying causes of IBD and testing innovative treatments, we strive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of those affected by this challenging condition.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) refers to a group of chronic conditions that cause long-term inflammation in the digestive tract.

The two primary types of IBD are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.

Crohn’s Disease

This condition can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract and may lead to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, weight loss, joint pain, and the development of abnormal tunnels known as fistulas.

Ulcerative Colitis

This type primarily affects the colon and rectum, resulting in symptoms such as bloody diarrhea and abdominal cramping.

Understanding IBD

The Numbers Behind the Disease

The prevalence of IBD has been increasing, highlighting a critical gap in our understanding of this complex condition and underscoring the urgent need for innovative therapies.

Prevalence

1 in 100 People

Approximately 1 in 100 people in the U.S. are affected by inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Population Impact

3 Million Adults

Approximately 3 million adults in the U.S. are diagnosed with IBD.

Surgical Intervention Rate

80% Surgery Rate

About 80% of Crohn’s disease patients will require surgery in their lifetime.

Our Approach to Research

At the Lightner Lab, we utilize organoids derived from human tissue obtained from surgical patients to investigate the mechanisms behind inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Our research focuses on:

Exploring Genetic, Environmental, and Immune Factors: We aim to understand the interplay between these elements and their contribution to the rising prevalence of IBD.
Identifying Innovative Therapeutics: By promoting tissue regeneration and restoration, we seek to develop new treatment options that go beyond managing symptoms.
Collaborative Efforts: Our lab actively collaborates with other research institutions to advance promising products into clinical trials. We evaluate the safety of these treatments in patient populations to provide more effective options for individuals suffering from IBD.

Explore Our Publications

Our Techniques

3D Tissue Modeling

By building 3D replicates of organs, we can better understand their response to disease activity, ability to regenerate, and investigate new compounds in a human derived in vitro system.

Small Molecule Inhibitors

Using our library to perform compound screening, we identify targets for regeneration and repair.

Peptide Therapeutics

Understanding gut hormones allows us to develop peptides which improve inflammation and promote barrier repair of the intestine.

Sources

National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (2023). Digestive Diseases Statistics for the United States.
Retrieved from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-statistics

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation. (2023). IBD Overview.
Retrieved from https://www.crohnscolitisfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2023-06/IBD%20Overview%202023%20FINAL.pdf