Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a multifactorial disorder marked by recurrent abdominal pain or discomfort and altered bowel function. It affects between 10 and 20 percent of people in the developed world, about one-third of whom have IBS associated with diarrhea (IBS-D). Certain factors that alter gastrointestinal function can contribute to IBS symptoms, including stress, prior gastroenteritis, changes in the gut microbiome, and bile acids and short-chain fatty acids, which may stimulate serotonin (5-HT) release and increase colonic permeability and motility.
Still, the underlying cause of IBS in many cases remains unknown. Michael Camilleri, says the ultimate goal "is a better understanding of the mechanisms behind this syndrome so we can foster individualized, specific treatment for IBS patients." So far, that goal remains unrealized. The only drug currently approved for IBS-D is…
