Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, remains a significant clinical challenge due to its chronic nature and the complexity of achieving sustained remission and improving patient quality of life. While advances in biologic and small molecule therapies have revolutionized IBD management, there is a growing understanding for the need of holistic treatment approaches that extend beyond mere clinical remission to facilitate and improve patient well-being.

This Research Topic seeks to explore the latest advances in IBD treatment, highlighting novel therapeutic targets, treatment strategies, and comprehensive care models. We aim to gather cutting-edge research and clinical insights that focus on a broad spectrum of issues pertaining to IBD management, with a particular emphasis on, but not limited to, the following themes:

1. Treatment Targets in Holistic IBD Care

We invite articles that identify and analyze treatment targets essential for holistic IBD management. There is an increasing need for therapeutic goals that go beyond controlling inflammation to reducing disease-associated disability and enhancing patient functionality and well-being. Submissions can explore new biomarkers, patient-centered outcomes, and innovative therapeutic strategies that prioritize a holistic approach to IBD care.

2. Relationship Between Treatment Targets, Disease Activity, and Quality of Life

Understanding how established treatment targets correlate with disease activity indices and quality of life outcomes is vital. This theme encourages studies that delve into the effectiveness of current treatment targets in improving not only clinical symptoms but also psychological and social aspects of life for IBD patients. Articles may present data from clinical studies, meta-analyses, or patient-reported outcomes to elucidate these relationships.

3. Bridging the Gap: Biological Remission vs. Quality of Life

Despite achieving biological remission, many IBD patients still experience significant impairments in their daily lives. This theme seeks contributions that address the gap between achieving biological remission and restoring normal quality of life. We are particularly interested in research that identifies factors contributing to this disparity and proposes interventions to ensure that clinical remission translates into genuinely improved patient experiences.

4. Emerging and Novel Therapies in IBD

As the landscape of IBD treatment continues to evolve, there is a critical need for real-world evidence supporting the use of emerging or novel therapies and treatment pathways. This theme calls for contributions presenting clinical trials, observational studies, and case reports that provide real-world data on the effectiveness, safety, and patient experiences with new IBD treatments, including biologics, small molecules, and cell-based therapies.

5. Neglected IBD Phenotypes

Certain IBD phenotypes, such as patients with isolated extraintestinal manifestations (EIM), limited proctitis, or those living with stomas, are often underrepresented in clinical trials. We welcome articles that highlight the unique challenges and treatment outcomes for these neglected patient populations, providing insights into their specific needs and the development of tailored therapeutic approaches.

6. Nutritional, Lifestyle, and Psychological Interventions

Comprehensive IBD care must address not only medical treatments but also nutritional, lifestyle, and psychological interventions. This theme invites research on the impact of dietary modifications, exercise, stress management, and psychological therapies on IBD outcomes. Articles may include randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and systematic reviews that underscore the role of integrative care approaches in improving the overall health and quality of life for IBD patients.

By compiling a diverse range of studies and reviews within these themes, this Research Topic aims to foster a deeper understanding of holistic IBD care, encouraging a shift toward more comprehensive and patient-centered treatment paradigms. We hope this collection will inspire further innovation and collaboration in the pursuit of optimal outcomes for all individuals living with IBD.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Advances in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Treatment, Targets and Therapy