About this Research Topic

Background

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) is commonly present in childhood and appears to be increasing in incidence across the globe. Various factors appear to be involved in pathogenesis, some of which are genetically determined, while others relate to environmental exposures and aberrant immune responses. While recent advances in research techniques and new treatment paradigms have improved our understanding of these conditions and patient management, many aspects still remain to be clarified.

We welcome investigators and clinicians to contribute original research articles as well as review articles and commentaries that will stimulate the continuing efforts to understand the molecular bases, natural history, and prognostic features of IBD, especially in children, and will then lead to the development of novel strategies to treat these conditions and improve patient outcomes. The reasons for focusing on children relate not only to the facts that IBD often presents in childhood and that there are unique pediatric features and consideration, but also to the opportunity to understand IBD pathogenesis by focusing on early life events, which appear to be clinical to disease development. We truly believe that many of the keys for IBD are in the early ages and that those investigating pediatric IBD are in an excellent position to contribute to the science and clinical practice.

We are particularly interested in articles describing features of IBD unique to children, aspects related to gene-environment interactions, novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and insights into the future care of patients. We welcome submissions related to the full spectrum of biomedical and clinical research, from basic-science approaches, including animal models, through translational research, to clinical and epidemiological observations and therapeutics. The main emphasis will be on novelty and potential for future impact on the biology and care of pediatric IBD. Although practice has changed substantially over the last decade, we expect many more improvements to come and hope that this Research Topic will provide readers with a window into the future of pediatric IBD.

Potential topics include, but are not limited to: Unique etiologies of pediatric IBD, including rare phenotypes and genetics; Global epidemiologic insights and trends; Biology-based phenotypes; Role and assessment of microbes in pediatric IBD; Development of biomarkers and prognostic tools; Development of novel animal models; Leading the way to new treatments; Improving patient care, safety, and quality of life.

We look forward to receiving submissions!

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.

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