About this Research Topic
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a chronic disorder characterized by abdominal pain and altered bowel habit, with symptoms not explained by obvious biochemical structural causes. IBS is a very common disease - with prevalence estimated for western countries being 10-15% - and adversely affects the quality of life, with considerable direct and indirect costs. Despite the prevalence and the social impact of IBS, the exact etiopathogenesis is incomplete and the pharmacological treatment is unfortunately largely unsatisfactory. We encourage researchers to submit papers (original papers or review articles) dealing with – but not limited to – the experimental and clinical pharmacology of IBS, including novel insights into the role and the pharmacological modulation of 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors, GABA receptors, corticotrophin-releasing factor, transient receptor potential channels, cannabinoid receptors , κ-opioid receptors, beta adrenoreceptors, protease-activated receptors, tackykinin receptors, cholecystokinin receptors, bile acid modulators and chloride channels in IBS motor disturbances, visceral hypersensitivity, intestinal secretion and permeability. Papers dealing with the experimental or clinical pharmacology of probiotics/prebiotics, nutraceuticals or plant products as well as systematic reviews/meta-analyses of the clinical data are also welcomed.
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