Immunoinflammation and functional gastrointestinal disorders

Saudi J Gastroenterol. 2012 Jul-Aug;18(4):225-9. doi: 10.4103/1319-3767.98420.

Abstract

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are a group of conditions characterized by the dysfunction of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Although the specific pathogenesis of FGIDs is unclear, several theories have been proposed to explain the symptoms. Abnormal GI motility and visceral hypersensitivity have always been considered to be the main physiopathologic basis of FGIDs, and FGIDs related to psychomental disorders have also caused a major social concern. In recent years, a growing number of researches have proved that cytokines have a significant influence on GI motility, and the role of cytokines in FGIDs has aroused more and more attention. In this article, we discuss the interaction between immunoinflammation and FGIDs, and make an overview of current studies.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cytokines / physiology
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / etiology*
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / pathology*
  • Gastrointestinal Diseases / physiopathology
  • Gastrointestinal Motility / physiology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators / physiology
  • Interstitial Cells of Cajal / physiology
  • Mental Disorders / etiology
  • Mental Disorders / metabolism
  • Mental Disorders / pathology

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • Inflammation Mediators