Gut homing molecule regulation of the pathogenesis and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases

Inflammatory bowel disease is a chronic, debilitating immunological disorder for which there are few effective treatments. New therapies targeting gut homing molecules, such as CCR9 and α₄β₇, are currently in development, with some of these reaching clinical trials. Gut-trophic molecules and their receptors are critical to the development of both tolerant and inflammatory immune responses in the gut. However, we know little regarding the function of homing molecules as it relates to IBD. Data have suggested both pathological and protective roles for gut homing molecules in IBD development and maintenance. In addition, recent research findings have suggested that chemokines can influence T cell differentiation and function. Given the current clinical relevance, it is essential to obtain a better understanding of the role of gut homing molecules in the regulation of IBD.