Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research

Studies are looking at the use of human growth hormone (HGH) combined with a high-protein diet to treat Crohn's disease. In a clinical trial, people treated this way had fewer symptoms after one month, and the benefits continued. The long-term risks and benefits are still being studied. Studies also are looking at the use of a gene-based drug to help growth of healthy tissue in people with ulcerative colitis, as well as new medications to use against factors that cause or promote inflammation.