Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition affecting 5 to 10 percent of the global population. Characterized by intermittent abdominal pain along with diarrhea, constipation, or alternating episodes of both, the disorder targets the gastrointestinal tract which includes the stomach and intestines. While IBS is a chronic condition that requires long-term management, it doesn’t…

When American molecular biologist Ardem Patapoutian was awarded the 2021 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine, which he shared with American physiologist David Julius, his key discoveries brought new insight into decoding the biology of senses and stimuli. Patapoutian’s research focused on identifying molecular receptors in the skin and other organs as well as how…

Researchers at the School of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Hong Kong Baptist University discovered that an intestinal bacteria called ruminococcus gnavus is the primary culprit that triggers diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome, and they have found a new remedial target for the disease. Bian Zhaoxiang, Director of the Clinical Division and Tsang Shiu Tim, Endowed Professor…

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), one of the most common chronic disorders, is estimated to affect at least one in ten people globally and as many as one in five Americans have symptoms of IBS. Emotional disturbance and stress caused by today’s fast-paced lifestyles have been linked to a wide range of digestive problems, including IBS,…