Mayo Researchers Determine Gene Mutation Causes Some IBS

Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have identified a genetic defect that they believe causes a subset of irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS.

IBS is common in the Western world, affecting about 15 to 20 percent of people. It is a disorder of the large intestine; people who have IBS commonly experience cramping, abdominal pain, bloating gas, diarrhea and constipation.

The Mayo researchers found that people with a subset of IBS have a mutation of the SC5NA gene. This defect causes them to have a disruption in bowel function.

The researchers are hopeful that their findings will allow them to work on disease-modifying agents.

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