"Work in Progress" Newsletter

Auditions for DNA

The First Screen Test
In 1999, our preliminary IBD genetics study showed promise for identifying the homes of potential genetic markers located on chromosome 2 and chromosome 16 for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This is especially important for patients whose disease is difficult to distinguish between Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, and indeterminate colitis. Identification of these markers, as well as others, may one day help us make a more accurate diagnosis.

In these genetic studies, we also are trying to link the presence of precancerous findings on samples of blood from IBD patients with precancerous changes in their colon to abnormalities located on two different areas of both of these chromosomes. Our hope is to be able to predict which IBD patients are at high risk for developing colorectal cancer.

You've Got the Part
These are extremely promising and exciting findings. However, we need to obtain blood samples from additional IBD patients, colorectal cancer patients, and others with gastrointestinal illnesses. Also, your DNA, along with that of your unaffected siblings and parents, may hold the clue to verifying these early genetic findings. In order to do this, family members would sign a consent form and donate one test tube of blood. If your parents, brothers, or sisters live out of state, we would be happy to mail their physician a consent form, blood tube, and payment for blood sampling including a self-addressed stamped envelope so that this could be returned to us.

To make arrangements, please call our Research Coordinator, Anna Williford, RN, at (502) 583-0880 or send her an email.

Return to the Top

Research | Fellowships | Patient Info | Career Opportunities | History | Faculty/Staff | Contact Us | Home | Disclaimer

Copyright © 2004 by Colidoscope.Com, LLC. All rights to materials contained within this Web site are reserved.

Webmaster: Information Specialists LLC