Intestinal Research

Review

The JAK attack: transforming the management of ulcerative colitis in India: Arshdeep Singh, Arshia Bhardwaj, Vandana Midha, Ajit Sood; Received July 26, 2025 Accepted September 8, 2025 Published online January 2, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00153 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF: Inflammatory bowel disease is increasingly recognized as a significant clinical entity in India, reflecting the country’s ongoing epidemiological transition. With a rising incidence and an expanding disease spectrum, the limitations of conventional therapeutic agents, such as corticosteroids and thiopurines, have become increasingly evident. This review examines the transformative role of Janus kinase inhibitors, particularly tofacitinib, in redefining therapeutic goals and bridging the gap between medical innovation and real-world implementation in resource-limited settings. Tofacitinib represents a pivotal advancement in the therapeutic landscape of ulcerative colitis (UC) in India, offering the advantages of oral administration, rapid onset of action, predictable pharmacokinetics, and cost-effective generic formulations–thereby overcoming several longstanding barriers to the adoption of advanced therapies. Accumulating real-world evidence from India supports its clinical utility across various phenotypes of UC, including corticosteroid-dependent or refractory disease, acute severe UC, ulcerative proctitis, elderly-onset UC, and in achieving deeper remission endpoints such as histologic healing. Furthermore, its incorporation into routine clinical practice has contributed to a measurable reduction in corticosteroid reliance, thereby aligning treatment strategies with international standards of care. By combining efficacy, safety, accessibility, and ease of use, tofacitinib has catalyzed a paradigm shift in the management of UC in the Indian context.

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Original Articles

Orofacial granulomatosis in pediatric Crohn’s disease: clinical outcomes and genetic background in the era of biologics: a retrospective study in Japan: Ryusuke Nambu, Takeo Naito, Mei Haruyama, Junichi Hosokawa, Hirotaka Shimizu, Ichiro Takeuchi, Shin-ichiro Hagiwara, Tatsuki Mizuochi, Yugo Takaki, Takashi Ishige, Takuya Nishizawa, Takahiro Kudo, Natsuki Ito, Yosuke Kawai, Yoichi Kakuta, Masao Nagasaki, Toshiaki Shimizu, Itaru Iwama, Katsuhiro Arai; Received June 18, 2025 Accepted September 1, 2025 Published online January 2, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00109 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF: Background/Aims
Occasionally, pediatric Crohn’s disease (CD) may develop after diagnosis of orofacial granulomatosis (OFG), which is characterized by chronic granulomatous lesions of the oral mucosa, lips, and perioral area. This study aimed to clarify clinical characteristics, treatment responses, and potential genetic contributors in pediatric patients with CD complicating OFG.
Methods
We studied pediatric patients with CD complicating OFG who were treated from 2013 to 2022 at 7 Japanese institutions specializing in pediatric inflammatory bowel disease. Their clinical courses were analyzed retrospectively, and analyses of 71 genes associated with monogenic inflammatory bowel disease were performed.
Results
Among 13 patients, 8 were girls. Median ages at diagnosis of OFG and CD were 9.2 (3.8–15.3) and 10.3 (6.4–15.3) years old, respectively. Upper gastrointestinal lesions were frequent in 8 cases (62%), while perianal lesions were present in 7 (54%). OFG failed to improve or relapsed despite remission of intestinal lesions in about half of the patients (n = 7, 54%). During follow-up, OFG went into remission in 7 patients, including 6 of the 9 who were treated with biologics (66%) and 1 of the 4 who were not (25%). In 8 patients, the NCF1 p.Arg90His allele was detected by genetic analysis; 7 were heterozygous and 1 homozygous, a higher prevalence than in the general Japanese population.
Conclusions
Clinical features of OFG associated with pediatric CD are diverse, and biologic agents were beneficial for OFG patients. NCF1 p.Arg90His mutation may contribute to the pathogenesis of pediatric CD complicating OFG.

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Integrating perspectives on transabdominal intestinal ultrasound in inflammatory bowel disease management: a nationwide cross-sectional survey of physicians and patients in China: Longxi Yun, Zhaojue Wang, Yujun Chen, Ning Chen, Yan Chen, Xiaoqi Zhang, Xiaoyan Xie, Ren Mao, Yue Li, Qingli Zhu, Minhu Chen, China IUS Group; Received May 8, 2025 Accepted August 21, 2025 Published online January 2, 2026; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00074 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF: Background/Aims
The awareness, accessibility, and utilization of transabdominal intestinal ultrasound (IUS) in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) management from both physicians’ and patients’ perspectives remains unclear in China. This nationwide cross-sectional survey aimed to gauge the current utilization of IUS, physician and patient perceptions and knowledge gap in IBD management across China.
Methods
A structured questionnaire, developed by the China IUS Group, was distributed to 612 physicians (69.8% of gastroenterologists, 28.0% of radiologists) from 38 tertiary hospitals and 1,154 IBD patients. Results: A total of 91.7% of physicians expressed an intention to incorporate IUS into future clinical practice. However, while 69.3% of physicians reported IUS availability at their institutions, its utilization varied widely. Only 16.5% of physicians applied IUS to more than 75% of their IBD patients. Additionally, 27.1% of physicians reported receiving IUS training. Radiologists were more likely than gastroenterologists to consider IUS as a sensitive tool for evaluating treatment efficacy (48.3% vs. 19.4%, P< 0.001), intestinal wall fibrosis (33.7% vs. 27.4%, P< 0.001), intestinal fistula (27.9% vs. 11.2%, P< 0.001), abdominal abscesses (49.4% vs. 28.6%, P< 0.001), and disease severity (30.2% vs. 11.0%, P< 0.001). Patients expressed high satisfaction with IUS (76.1%), yet 39.2% had safety concerns.
Conclusions
Despite growing recognition of IUS in China, its wide utilization in IBD management requires further promotion. The notable disparity between gastroenterologists and radiologists regarding IUS underscores the need for targeted, specialty-specific training. Strengthening patient education efforts is essential to further enhance patient acceptance of IUS.

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Fecal surrogate markers strongly correlate with endoscopic findings in pediatric onset inflammatory bowel disease: a retrospective study in Japan: Ryoko Yoshimura, Takahiro Kudo, Masanori Toda, Kosuke Kashiwagi, Masumi Nagata, Kaori Aoki, Natsuki Ito, Kazuhide Tokita, Nobuyasu Arai, Reiko Kyodo, Masamichi Sato, Eri Miyata, Keisuke Jimbo, Yoshikazu Ohtsuka, Toshiaki Shimizu, Hiromichi Shoji; Received January 5, 2025 Accepted April 2, 2025 Published online December 12, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00103 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
Endoscopy serves as the gold standard for assessing disease activity in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Noninvasive biomarkers have been under exploration as potential alternatives. This study aims to examine the diagnostic effectiveness of fecal immunochemical tests, along with levels of fecal calprotectin (FC) and fecal lactoferrin (FL), in stool samples from patients with early-onset IBD.
Methods
Children with childhood-onset IBD who visited the Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine at Juntendo University Hospital between August 2019 and July 2023 were included. FC levels, FL levels, and fecal immunochemical test results were measured using a colloidal gold agglutination assay. Fecal biomarker results and endoscopic findings were reviewed retrospectively.
Results
Sixty-five patients had ulcerative colitis (UC), 20 had Crohn’s disease (CD), and 3 had unclassified IBD. The participants, aged 3–27 years (median, 18.0 years), included 56 males and 32 females. Stool samples (n = 1,105) were analyzed, from 803 with UC, 251 with CD, and 51 with IBD. Endoscopic evaluations were conducted in 45 UC patients and 18 CD patients. A significant correlation was found between the FC and FL. These biomarkers were significantly correlated with the endoscopic activity index in both UC and CD patients.
Conclusions
FC is valuable for diagnosing endoscopic inflammation and predicting recurrence. A significant correlation was observed between FC and FL. In patients with UC and CD, both markers strongly correlated with endoscopic activity. Thus, FC and FL can serve as a reliable alternative to endoscopic evaluation in pediatric patients with childhood-onset IBD.

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Preventive and therapeutic effects of co-administration of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron and infliximab on dextran sodium sulfate-induced colitis in mice: Sara Ahmadi Badi, Hamid Reza Moradi, Ahmad Berimipour, Shima Shojaie, Arian Kariman, Hananeh Tavakoli Aval, Seyed Amirhesam Seyedi, Mehdi Davari, Mohammad Hassan Sohouli, Shohreh Khatami, Seyed Davar Siadat, Pejman Rohani; Received April 22, 2025 Accepted August 21, 2025 Published online December 12, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00061 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
The gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis and treatment of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). This study aimed to investigate the effects of active, heat-inactivated, and cell-free supernatant (CFS) forms of Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, alone or in combination with infliximab, in dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Colitis was induced by oral administration of DSS for seven days. B. thetaiotaomicron in its various forms was orally administered at a dose of 1 × 10⁸ CFU prior to and during colitis induction. Infliximab was intraperitoneally injected from days 3 to 5 of DSS exposure. Colitis severity, gene expression, tumor necrosis factor alpha levels, and gut microbiota were assessed by disease activity index, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and qPCR, respectively.
Results
Active B. thetaiotaomicron and its CFS form significantly alleviated colitis symptoms compared to the heat-inactivated form. Furthermore, co-administration of active B. thetaiotaomicron and infliximab significantly modulated the colonic mRNA expression of Ocln, Tff3, Muc2 (upregulated), and Ace2 (downregulated). This combination also exhibited synergistic improvement in colitis severity in treated mice.
Conclusions
These findings underscore the therapeutic potential of B. thetaiotaomicron in IBD, either alone or in combination with infliximab, and support further development of microbiota-based strategies for IBD prevention and treatment.

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Effectiveness, safety, and pharmacokinetics of the infliximab biosimilar CT-P13 after non-medical switch from the infliximab originator in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: Ryohei Nomaru, Teruyuki Takeda, Atsushi Takahashi, Hiroyuki Mikumo, Shigeyoshi Yasukawa, Akihiro Koga, Takao Kanemitsu, Yoichiro Ono, Noritaka Takatsu, Masaki Miyaoka, Takashi Hisabe, Hisatomi Arima, So Imakiire, Eri Yamauchi, Shinya Ashizuka, Fumihito Hirai; Received June 30, 2025 Accepted September 4, 2025 Published online November 27, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00118 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
The introduction of anti-tumor necrosis factor-α antibodies transformed the landscape of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment. Because biologics are associated with increased medical costs, the use of biosimilars (BS) is recommended. However, high-quality evidence on the efficacy of BS in Japan remains limited. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of BS in patients with IBD.
Methods
Patients with IBD who underwent a non-medical switch (NMS) from infliximab originator (IFX-O) to IFX-BS at Fukuoka University Chikushi Hospital were prospectively evaluated. The observation period was up to 56 weeks after the NMS, and the rate of continuation, clinical remission at 56 weeks, safety, and changes in trough concentration were analyzed. Moreover, a questionnaire survey regarding BS and NMS was conducted.
Results
A total of 167 patients were included in this study. The continuation rate for IFX-BS therapy after NMS was high (95.6%). The remission maintenance rate at 56 weeks was 85.7% for patients with Crohn’s disease and 77.8% for patients with ulcerative colitis. Adverse events were observed in 22.8% of patients. However, only 2 severe adverse events were recorded. The ratios of trough concentrations at 8, 24, and 56 weeks to that at week 0 were 115.6%, 101.2%, and 123.5%, respectively, indicating statistical non-inferiority. In a questionnaire survey, only 6.2% of the patients were aware of BS, however, more than half of them agreed with the NMS recommendation.
Conclusions
The efficacy and safety of IFX-BS after NMS are high. In addition, its trough concentration is serologically non-inferior to baseline values.

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Reviews

Efficacy and safety of filgotinib in the treatment of ulcerative colitis with a focus on rapid and sustained efficacy: a narrative review: Tadakazu Hisamatsu, Toshihiko Kaise, Chisa Nagakura, Makoto Kamiya, Shu-Chen Wei; Received July 25, 2025 Accepted September 28, 2025 Published online November 19, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00155 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: The rising incidence of ulcerative colitis (UC) globally highlights the necessity for treatment strategies that extend beyond symptom control to include inducing and maintaining remission, achieving biochemical and endoscopic remission, and restoring quality of life. Janus kinase inhibitors, such as filgotinib (FIL), show promise in treating UC. This review consolidates evidence on FIL in treating UC from the SELECTION and SELECTIONLTE trials, and real-world studies. Overall, FIL demonstrated rapid symptom relief (e.g., improved rectal bleeding and stool frequency) within 7 days and durable efficacy (e.g., clinical remission, Mayo Clinic Score response) up to 4 years. Improvements in health-related quality of life (HRQoL) and reduced corticosteroid dependency were also observed. The 200 mg dose generally elicited greater efficacy responses than the 100 mg dose, and hence may potentially be a more suitable choice for optimizing treatment outcomes. Although FIL may be an effective long-term treatment option regardless of prior biologic experience, biologic-naive patients may experience greater sustained clinical improvements. Safety outcomes indicated that FIL was well tolerated with no unexpected safety signals in SELECTION and SELECTIONLTE. These findings support FIL’s potential as a robust therapeutic option for UC, due to its acceptable safety profile and benefits across clinical and HRQoL outcomes.

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The role of the Mediterranean diet in the management of inflammatory bowel disease: a narrative review: Peter Vivian Acire, Stephanie C. Brown, Andrew S. Day; Received May 6, 2025 Accepted August 12, 2025 Published online November 19, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00043 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by the presence of gastrointestinal inflammation, that in some individuals leads on to complications, including strictures. IBD can be associated with significant morbidity with disruption of daily activities. Although the precise cause of IBD is unknown, epidemiologic studies indicate that diet is one contributory factor. Furthermore, various specific nutritional interventions have roles in the management of IBD. While the contribution of the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) to the development or management of IBD has not yet been clearly delineated, available data are generally supportive. The MedDiet includes the consumption of a pattern of particular foods, such as plentiful vegetables, fruit, seafood, and olive oil, along with lifestyle features. Adherence to a MedDiet is associated with enrichment of beneficial components of the intestinal microbiome and enhanced barrier function: outcomes that are likely beneficial to individuals with IBD. The focus of this review was to highlight the evidence for the MedDiet in the setting of IBD, whilst giving an overview of the underlying health impacts of the MedDiet and the putative mechanisms of this dietary approach.

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Original Article

The impact of inflammatory bowel disease on women’s health: a cross sectional study in India: Arshia Bhardwaj, Arshdeep Singh, Riya Sharma, Gopal Bhardwaj, Liza Joshi, Ramit Mahajan, Dharmatma Singh, Pankaj Kumar, Marla C. Dubinsky, Shaji Sebastian, Vandana Midha, Ajit Sood; Received May 26, 2025 Accepted August 12, 2025 Published online November 14, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00088 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
The gender-specific impact of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) on women in low- and middle-income countries remains underexplored. We aimed to assess the effects of IBD on different domains of women’s health.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in women with IBD at a tertiary care center in North India. Women with IBD were interviewed using a structured questionnaire assessing menstrual, reproductive, sexual, mental, social, and financial health, and healthcare access.
Results
Two hundred and two women (median age, 41 years; ulcerative colitis [n = 155, 76.7%]) were enrolled. Anemia was present in 161 women (79.7%), with a median hemoglobin of 10.5 g/dL. Among menstruating women (n = 138), 69 (50%) had irregular cycles, and 39 (28.3%) experienced IBD exacerbations during menstruation. Sexual dysfunction was reported in 82.5% (n = 137/166). Pregnancy-related concerns were common (n= 120, 59.4%), mainly due to risk of heritability and safety of IBD medication. Ten women (4.9%) attributed pregnancy loss to disease activity. Cervical cancer screening (3.0%) and human papillomavirus vaccination (4.0%) rates were low. The median SICC-IBD (social impact of chronic conditions in IBD) score was 0.6. Forty-three women (21.3%) reported difficulties in finding a partner due to IBD. Limited access to IBD specialists (n = 150, 74.3%) and medications (n = 164, 81.2%) were reported in hometown. Fifty-five women (27.2%) relied on loans to manage treatment expenses.
Conclusions
IBD affects women across physical, reproductive, social, and financial domains. Culturally sensitive, multidisciplinary care models are essential to address these unmet needs.

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Case Report

Ustekinumab-induced Henoch-Schönlein purpura in Crohn’s disease: a case report and literature review: Merih Deniz Toruner, Tugce Guvenir, Volkan Yilmaz, Ramazan Erdem Er, Murat Toruner; Received January 22, 2025 Accepted July 13, 2025 Published online November 14, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00009 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Crohn’s disease is a chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive tract with extraintestinal manifestations, which include skin conditions, arthritis, ocular inflammation, and several autoimmune conditions. Dermatologic manifestations in Crohn’s disease complicate the treatment course and prognosis and should be addressed promptly. Here, we report a 20-year-old male with a history of Crohn’s disease, presenting with palpable purpura, consistent with Henoch-Schönlein purpura, upon administration of ustekinumab. The immunoglobulin A vasculitis was treated with prednisone and the discontinuation of ustekinumab. Due to the increased usage of biological agents in inflammatory bowel diseases, associations between biologics and vasculitides should be further studied in Crohn’s disease patients for alternative treatment strategies and to understand potential adverse effects caused by biologics in Crohn’s disease.

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Reviews

IBD

Targeting the gut microbiome in inflammatory bowel disease: from concept to clinical reality: Nathalie Rolhion, Harry Sokol; Intest Res 2025;23(4):396-404. Published online October 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00104

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: The gut microbiota, a complex community of trillions of microorganisms inhabiting the human gastrointestinal tract, has emerged as a critical regulator of immune homeostasis and gastrointestinal health. In the context of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), comprising primarily Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, disruptions to this microbial ecosystem—collectively termed dysbiosis—have been increasingly recognized as central to disease pathogenesis. Recent research has established that alterations in gut microbiota not only reflect disease states but may actively drive immune dysregulation, barrier dysfunction, and mucosal inflammation. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the role of the gut microbiota in IBD and evaluates the therapeutic landscape of microbiota-modulating strategies using selected examples. Fecal microbiota transplantation, while offering proof-of-concept validation, is hindered by standardization challenges and variable clinical outcomes. As a response, microbiome-based therapeutics have evolved toward defined live biotherapeutic products including bacterial consortia and single-strain products, postbiotics, and metabolite-centered approaches targeting specific pathways. Groundbreaking research into rationally designed synthetic microbiomes and next-generation probiotics is driving a paradigm shift in microbiota-based treatment for IBD from empirical to precision-guided interventions.

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IBD

Asian–Pacific perspectives on the management of very early-onset inflammatory bowel disease: Ichiro Takeuchi, Katsuhiro Arai, Pornthep Tanpowpong, Ming-Wei Lai, Andrew S Day, Way Seah Lee, James Guoxian Huang, Karen Sophia Calixto-Mercado, Rosanna Ming Sum Wong, Muhammad Arshad Alvi, Zubin Grover, Jung Ok Shim, Ujjal Poddar; Intest Res 2025;23(4):405-429. Published online October 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00082

Abstract PDF PubReader ePub: Children diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) before the age of 6 years are considered to have “very early-onset IBD (VEO-IBD),” which is challenging to diagnose and treat. Notably, many children with VEO-IBD have monogenic forms of the disease, meaning that early genetic testing is useful. However, because the prevalence of genetic variants causing VEO-IBD differs globally, the diagnosis and treatment of this disease should be tailored to each region. In the present review paper, the IBD Subcommittee of the Scientific Committee of the Asia-Pacific Society of Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (APSPGHAN) has summarized the epidemiology, presenting features, diagnosis, and treatment of VEO-IBD in the Asia– Pacific region, with an aim to guide clinicians and researchers who work with VEO-IBD in this area. Our 3 main messages are as follows: endoscopy is essential for VEO-IBD diagnosis; all children diagnosed with VEO-IBD should be suspected of having a monogenic form; and children with suspected monogenic IBD should undergo early genetic testing. Our messages aim to improve the early diagnosis and treatment of VEO-IBD in the Asia–Pacific region, including the early detection of monogenic IBD in this area.

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Original Articles

IBD

Knowledge and acceptability of the Lémann Index as a tool to measure disease progression and bowel damage in Crohn’s disease: results from an international survey: Charlotte Wong, Johan Burisch, Ryan C Ungaro, Anthony Buisson, Jérôme Lambert, Jean-Frédéric Colombel, Joana Torres, Naila Arebi; Intest Res 2025;23(4):512-523. Published online October 28, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00183

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
Crohn’s disease (CD) progresses to structural bowel damage (SBD). The Lémann Index (LI) captures stricture extent/severity, penetrating disease and surgery as a SBD score, and is earmarked for future CD modification trials. Understanding knowledge gaps and perceived barriers is critical to wider adoption.
Methods
A multinational, cross-sectional study was distributed through a survey link (REDCap, Research Electronic Data Capture) to gastrointestinal professional societies with snowball sampling using 23 questionnaire items in 5 sections to determine SBD and LI knowledge, and LI acceptability. Factors associated with acceptability and perception were evaluated.
Results
Of the 107 respondents, 49 (45.8%) were female; 87 (81.3%) were from Europe. Most were inflammatory bowel disease specialists (n = 80, 74.8%) or general gastroenterologists (n = 22, 20.6%), managing > 40 CD patients per month (n = 35, 32.7%). A total of 98 (91.6%) knew about SBD; “very important” rating for clinical trials and clinical practice was 56.1% and 41.4%, respectively. A 39.3% describe LI scoring as “very difficult” or “difficult”; 33.6% reported “significant” or “a lot” of effort. Acceptability (composite scores of > 36) were significantly associated with respondents who had received LI training (P<0.001). Automated methods, intestinal ultrasound and evidence of benefit would encourage LI use in clinical trials, while additional time and automated methods would promote use in clinical practice. The top 3 perceived adoption barriers were: lack of time (60.7%), limited automated methods (47.7%) and need for dedicated radiologists (38.3%).
Conclusions
Most respondents had baseline knowledge of SBD. The LI was perceived as important for advancing future CD research and care. More training and automation will facilitate LI adoption.

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IBD

Latent tuberculosis infection screening in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a nationwide retrospective cohort study in South Korea comparing IGRA alone versus a combination of TST and IGRA: Ye-Jee Kim, Jiyeon Kim, Jiwon Lee, Tae Sun Shim, Sang Hyoung Park, Kyung-Wook Jo; Intest Res 2025;23(4):541-550. Published online October 14, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00136

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
We aimed to evaluate if using the interferon-gamma release assay (IGRA) alone is effective for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening in preventing active tuberculosis in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) before initiating anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNF-α) therapy, compared to using both the tuberculin skin test and IGRA.
Methods
Using South Korea’s Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, we selected IBD patients treated with anti-TNF-α agents for ≥ 1 year who underwent LTBI screening between 2018 and 2021. We compared the 1-year incidence rate and standardized incidence ratio of active tuberculosis incidence after starting anti-TNF-α treatment to the general population based on the LTBI screening strategy.
Results
Of the 4,215 enrolled patients, 3,505 underwent IGRA alone for LTBI screening, while 710 received both tuberculin skin test and IGRA. Within 1 year of starting anti-TNF-α treatment, 15 patients (0.36%) developed active tuberculosis, with a mean follow-up period of 4,200.6 person-years. The 1-year tuberculosis incidence rates were 372.3 (95% confidence interval [CI], 198.2–636.6) per 100,000 person-years for the IGRA alone group and 282.3 (95% CI, 34.2–1,019.9) per 100,000 person-years for the combination group. The standardized incidence ratios were similar: 14.34 (95% CI, 7.63–24.52) for the IGRA alone group and 11.25 (95% CI, 1.26–40.61) for the combination group.
Conclusions
Using IGRA alone may be an effective strategy for LTBI screening in IBD patients before starting anti-TNF-α therapy. (Intest Res, Published online)

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Week 2 remission with vedolizumab as a predictor of long-term remission in patients with ulcerative colitis: a multicenter, retrospective, observational study: Taku Kobayashi, Tadakazu Hisamatsu, Satoshi Motoya, Toshimitsu Fujii, Reiko Kunisaki, Tomoyoshi Shibuya, Minoru Matsuura, Ken Takeuchi, Sakiko Hiraoka, Hiroshi Yasuda, Kaoru Yokoyama, Noritaka Takatsu, Atsuo Maemoto, Toshiyuki Tahara, Keiichi Tominaga, Masaaki Shimada, Nobuaki Kuno, Mary Cavaliere, Kaori Ishiguro, Jovelle L Fernandez, Toshifumi Hibi; Received April 9, 2024 Accepted April 6, 2025 Published online July 14, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00047 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
Vedolizumab (VDZ), a gut-selective monoclonal antibody for ulcerative colitis (UC) treatment, has no established biomarkers or clinical features that predict long-term remission. Week 2 remission, a potential predictor of long-term remission, could inform maintenance treatment strategy.
Methods
This retrospective, observational chart review included patients with UC in Japan who initiated VDZ between December 2018 and February 2020. Outcome measures included 14- and 54-week remission rates in patients with week 2 and non-week 2 remission (remission by week 14), 54-week remission rates in patients with week 14 remission and primary nonresponse, and predictive factors of week 2 and week 54 remission (logistic regression).
Results
Overall, 332 patients with UC (176 biologic-naïve and 156 biologic-non-naïve) were included. Significantly more biologic-naïve than biologic-non-naïve patients achieved week 2 remission (36.9% vs. 28.2%; odds ratio [OR], 1.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.05–1.94; P= 0.0224). Week 54 remission rates were significantly different between week 14 remission and primary nonresponse (both groups: P< 0.0001), and between week 2 and non-week 2 remission (all patients: OR, 2.41; 95% CI, 1.30–4.48; P= 0.0052; biologic-naïve patients: OR, 2.40; 95% CI, 1.10–5.24; P= 0.0280). Week 2 remission predictors were male sex, no anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha exposure, and normal/mild endoscopic findings. Week 54 remission was significantly associated with week 2 remission and no tacrolimus use.
Conclusions
Week 2 remission with VDZ is a predictor of week 54 remission in patients with UC. Week 2 may be used as an evaluation point for UC treatment decisions. (Japanese Registry of Clinical Trials: jRCT-1080225363)

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Cross-ethnic evaluation of gut microbial signatures reveal increased colonization with oral pathobionts in the north Indian inflammatory bowel disease cohort: Arshdeep Singh, Garima Juyal, Ranko Gacesa, Mohan C. Joshi, Vandana Midha, B. K. Thelma, Rinse K Weersma, Ajit Sood; Received December 23, 2024 Accepted April 23, 2025 Published online July 14, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00216 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) has become a global health concern. With the growing evidence of the gut microbiota’s role in IBD, studying microbial compositions across ethnic cohorts is essential to identify unique, populationspecific microbial signatures.
Methods
We analyzed stool samples and clinical data from 254 IBD patients (226 ulcerative colitis, 28 Crohn’s disease) and 66 controls in northern India using metagenomic shotgun sequencing to assess microbiota diversity, composition, and function. Results were replicated in 436 IBD patients and 903 controls from the Netherlands using identical workflows. Using machine learning, we evaluated the generalizability of Indian IBD signals to the Dutch cohort, and vice versa.
Results
Indian IBD patients exhibited reduced bacterial diversity and an abundance of opportunistic pathogens, including Clostridium, Streptococcus, and oral bacteria like Streptococcus oralis and Bifidobacterium dentium. There was a significant loss of energy metabolic pathways and distinct co-occurrence patterns among microbial species. Notably, 39% of these signals replicated in the Dutch cohort. Unique to the Indian cohort were oral pathobionts such as Scardovia, Oribacterium, Actinomyces dentalis, and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Both Indian and Dutch IBD patients shared reduced butyrate producers. Machine-learning diagnostic models trained on the Indian cohort achieved high predictive accuracy (sensitivity 0.84, specificity 0.95) and moderately generalized to the Dutch cohort (sensitivity 0.77, specificity 0.69).
Conclusions
IBD patients across populations exhibit shared and unique microbial signatures, suggesting a role for the oral-gut microbiome axis in IBD. Crossethnic diagnostic models show promise for broader applications in identifying IBD.

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IBD

A real-world comparison of subcutaneous to intravenous administration of infliximab in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: Kwang Woo Kim, Hyoun Woo Kang, Seong-Joon Koh, Hyuk Yoon, Sihyun Kim, Yukyung Jun, Hyun Jung Lee, Jong Pil Im, Young Soo Park, Ji Won Kim, Joo Sung Kim, Seoul National University Inflammatory Bowel Disease Research Network (SIRN); Intest Res 2025;23(4):483-490. Published online June 23, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2025.00001

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Background/Aims
We compared intravenous and subcutaneous infliximab (IFX) as treatment for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
Methods
This retrospective, multicenter, observational study enrolled patients treated with either intravenous or subcutaneous IFX. Sequential parameters were compared at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months following the initiation of treatment with either type of IFX. The primary outcome was the comparison of the IFX trough levels after 12 months of treatment.
Results
In total, 183 participants were included in this study. After 6 months, the subcutaneous group exhibited significant differences compared to the intravenous group; in terms of clinical disease activity (0% vs. 15%, P= 0.007) and IFX trough level (21.72 ± 8.71 μg/mL vs. 7.70 ± 16.65 μg/mL, P= 0.002). After 12 months, subcutaneous, as compared to intravenous, achieved improved clinical disease activity (0% vs. 15%, P= 0.044) and IFX trough level (20.41 ± 12.91 μg/mL vs. 7.06 ± 6.81 μg/mL, P< 0.001). Analyzing the sequential changes compared with baseline data within each group, we observed significant alterations in subcutaneous; 6 months fecal calprotectin (676.3 ± 976.6 μg/g vs. 253.9 ± 483.9 μg/g, P= 0.014), 6 months IFX trough level (7.00 ± 5.67 μg/mL vs. 18.44 ± 6.34 μg/mL, P= 0.026), and 12 months IFX trough level (7.00 ± 5.67 μg/mL vs. 21.33 ± 4.50 μg/mL, P= 0.034).
Conclusions
This study indicates the potential suitability of subcutaneous IFX as an alternative treatment option for IBD.

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IBD

Understanding fatigue among Japanese patients with inflammatory bowel disease: insights from international comparisons and meta-analysis: Makoto Tanaka, Momoko Takai, Sayaka Wakai, Kayoko Sakagami, Hiroaki Ito; Intest Res 2025;23(3):372-381. Published online January 22, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00145

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Background/Aims
Fatigue is a common symptom in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy-Fatigue (FACIT-F) scale has demonstrated reliability and validity in assessing fatigue in patients with IBD and is used worldwide. This study aimed to examine the current state of fatigue among Japanese patients with IBD using the FACIT-F scale and to compare these findings with data from global studies through a systematic review.
Methods
Data from 488 patients with IBD treated at a specialized IBD clinic were analyzed. Patient characteristics, such as sex, age, disease duration, disease activity, FACIT-F scores, and sleep duration, were collected. A literature search identified 8 studies that met our inclusion criteria for an international comparison. A meta-analysis was performed on the Fatigue Subscale (FS) scores of FACIT-F to estimate the pooled mean.
Results
The mean FACIT-F (FS) score in this study was 39.9 ± 8.6. Four variables were significantly associated with fatigue: low Emotional Well-Being subscale scores, sleep duration < 6 hours, albumin level below the reference value, and being unmarried. The meta-analysis revealed that the pooled mean score was 40.2 (95% confidence interval, 39.5–40.9), and between-study heterogeneity was moderate (I² = 41%).
Conclusions
The FACIT-F (FS) scores and related factors in Japanese patients with IBD demonstrated a similar trend to those in other countries. These findings can be used to identify patients in need of support and to consider interventions for modifiable factors. This study will help promote international collaborative research.

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Sexual satisfaction and associated factors among patients with inflammatory bowel disease in Japan
Sayaka Wakai, Makoto Tanaka, Momoko Takai, Kayoko Sakagami, Hiroaki Ito
Japan Journal of Nursing Science.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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Factors affecting 1-year persistence with vedolizumab for ulcerative colitis: a multicenter, retrospective real-world study: Taku Kobayashi, Tadakazu Hisamatsu, Satoshi Motoya, Toshimitsu Fujii, Reiko Kunisaki, Tomoyoshi Shibuya, Minoru Matsuura, Ken Takeuchi, Sakiko Hiraoka, Hiroshi Yasuda, Kaoru Yokoyama, Noritaka Takatsu, Atsuo Maemoto, Toshiyuki Tahara, Keiichi Tominaga, Masaaki Shimada, Nobuaki Kuno, Jovelle L. Fernandez, Kaori Ishiguro, Mary Cavaliere, Hisato Deguchi, Toshifumi Hibi; Received May 1, 2024 Accepted October 5, 2024 Published online January 16, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00063 [Epub ahead of print]

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Background/Aims
The objectives of this real-world study were to determine 1-year persistence with vedolizumab in patients with ulcerative colitis and to evaluate factors contributing to loss of response.
Methods
In this multicenter, retrospective, observational chart review, patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis who received ≥ 1 dose of vedolizumab in clinical practice at 16 tertiary hospitals in Japan (from December 2018 through February 2020) were enrolled.
Results
Persistence with vedolizumab was 64.5% (n = 370); the median follow-up time was 53.2 weeks. Discontinuation due to loss of response among initial clinical remitters was reported in 12.5% (35/281) of patients. Multivariate analysis showed that concomitant use of tacrolimus (odds ratio [OR], 2.76; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–7.62; P= 0.050) and shorter disease duration (OR for median duration ≥ 7.8 years vs. < 7.8 years, 0.33; 95% CI, 0.13–0.82; P= 0.017) were associated with discontinuation due to loss of response. Loss of response was not associated with prior use of anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha therapy, age at the time of treatment, disease severity, or concomitant corticosteroids or immunomodulators. Of the 25 patients with disease duration < 1 year, 32.0% discontinued due to loss of response.
Conclusions
Persistence with vedolizumab was consistent with previous reports. Use of tacrolimus and shorter disease duration were the main predictors of decreased persistence.

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Real‐World Effectiveness and Safety of Vedolizumab in Patients ≥ 70 Versus < 70 Years With Ulcerative Colitis: Multicenter Retrospective Study
Tadakazu Hisamatsu, Taku Kobayashi, Satoshi Motoya, Toshimitsu Fujii, Reiko Kunisaki, Tomoyoshi Shibuya, Minoru Matsuura, Sakiko Hiraoka, Ken Takeuchi, Hiroshi Yasuda, Kaoru Yokoyama, Noritaka Takatsu, Atsuo Maemoto, Toshiyuki Tahara, Keiichi Tominaga, Ma
Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.2025; 40(6): 1435. CrossRef
Increasing age at diagnosis raises malignancy risk and aminosalicylate intolerance influences therapeutic strategies in ulcerative colitis: a multicenter I‑BRITE cohort study
Shintaro Akiyama, Yuka Ito, Mamiko Shiroyama, Satoshi Suzuki, Masanori Ochi, Toshiro Kamoshida, Hiroshi Kashimura, Junichi Iwamoto, Rie Saito, Tsuyoshi Kaneko, Kazuto Ikezawa, Yoshinori Hiroshima, Junji Hattori, Takashi Mamiya, Satoshi Fukuda, Kazuho Iked
Journal of Gastroenterology.2025; 60(10): 1259. CrossRef
Mayo Endoscopic Subscore at Week 24 Is a Predictor of Future Loss of Response to Vedolizumab in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis in Clinical Remission
Daisuke Saito, Minoru Matsuura, Hiromu Morikubo, Noritaka Hibi, Haruka Komatsu, Noriaki Oguri, Takeshi Fujima, Haruka Wada, Ryota Ogihara, Tatsuya Mitsui, Mari Hayashida, Jun Miyoshi, Teppei Omori, Tadakazu Hisamatsu
Inflammatory Intestinal Diseases.2025; 10(1): 387. CrossRef

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Statement

IBD

Role of 5-aminosalicylic acid in ulcerative colitis management in 8 Asian territories: a physician survey: Julajak Limsrivilai, Allen Yu-hung Lai, Silvia T. H. Li, Murdani Abdullah, Raja Affendi Raja Ali, Satimai Aniwan, Hoang Huu Bui, Jen-Wei Chou, Ida Normiha Hilmi, Wee Chian Lim, Jose Sollano, Michelle Mui Hian Teo, Shu-Chen Wei, Wai Keung Leung; Intest Res 2025;23(2):117-128. Published online January 6, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00085

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub: Clinical guidelines typically endorse conventional therapies such as 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) as the mainstay of ulcerative colitis management. However, the degree of adoption and application of guideline recommendations by physicians within Asia remains unclear. This study aims to understand the prescribing patterns of 5-ASA and implementation of current guideline recommendations across Asian clinical practice. A physician survey was conducted among inflammatory bowel disease specialists in 8 Asian territories to understand practices and preferences in ulcerative colitis management, focusing on the use of 5-ASA and concordance with guideline recommendations. Survey findings were validated by country experts in diverse healthcare settings. Subgroup analyses stratified data by income levels and treatment reimbursement status. Ninety-eight valid responses were received from inflammatory bowel disease specialists or gastroenterologists among 8 economic entities. Significant differences were found in clinical practices and treatment preferences for ulcerative colitis management among different income-level and government-subsidy groups. Survey results are summarized in 8 findings that illustrate trends in 5-ASA use and guideline implementation across Asian territories. This study emphasizes socioeconomic factors that impact the adoption of guideline recommendations in real-world practice. Our findings indicate an eclectic approach to guideline implementation across Asia, based on resource availability and feasibility of treatment goals.

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Original Article

IBD

Knowledge and perspectives towards the use of histology in inflammatory bowel disease by gastroenterologists across the Asia-Pacific region: Thanaboon Chaemsupaphan, Aviv Pudipeddi, Huiyu Lin, Hsin-Yun Wu, Julajak Limsrivilai, Wee Chian Lim, Shu-Chen Wei, Rupert W. Leong; Intest Res 2025;23(3):338-346. Published online December 2, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00086

Abstract PDF Supplementary Material PubReader ePub

Background/Aims
Recently, histological mucosal assessment has gained momentum as a potential new treatment target for patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in the Asia-Pacific region. This study aimed to evaluate and compare the knowledge and acceptability of histological assessment among gastroenterologists across the region.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey among gastroenterologists in the Asia-Pacific region was conducted and compared against a previous Australian survey. The questionnaire assessed knowledge and attitude towards the role and application of histology in IBD practice. Statistical analyses were employed to compare scores and identify predictors.
Results
A total of 221 gastroenterologists from 12 countries, including 77 (34.8%) from Australia, responded to questionnaire, with 185 (83.7%) completing the survey. The mean knowledge score was 9.8 ± 3.3 (51.6%). There was no significant difference in the average score among countries (P= 0.53). IBD specialist (P< 0.01), doctoral degree (P= 0.02), and regular participation in IBD multidisciplinary meetings (P= 0.01) were associated with higher scores. Most respondents (90.7%) agreed on the importance of histology in IBD. While 54.6% of Australians perceived the role of histology as established, only 37.0% of Asians respondents considered this similarly (P= 0.02). Histological activity alone minimally influences treatment escalation in patients with endoscopic remission, but achieving combined histo-endoscopic remission often leads to therapy de-escalation.
Conclusions
Although gastroenterologists in the Asia-Pacific region are aware of the role of histology in IBD, their knowledge remains limited, and its clinical utility is not widely adopted. There is a need to promote the routine use of standardized histological assessment in IBD practice.

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Comparison of the performance between an AI-based vision transformer and human endoscopists in predicting the endoscopic and histologic activities of ulcerative colitis
Yuan-Yen Chang, Han-Po Yang, Yang-Yuan Chen, Hsu-Heng Yen
DIGITAL HEALTH.2026;[Epub] CrossRef
Asia Pacific association of gastroenterology consensus statements on histopathological evaluation of inflammatory bowel diseases
Rupert W. Leong, Thanaboon Chaemsupaphan, Huiyu Lin, Wee Chian Lim, Choon Jin Ooi, John D. Chetwood, Ren Mao, Hsin Yun Wu, Shu Chen Wei, Govind Makharia, Vineet Ahuja, Rupa Banerjee, Raja Atreya, Julajak Limsrivilai, Satimai Aniwan, Pises Pisespongsa, Ida
Therapeutic Advances in Gastroenterology.2025;[Epub] CrossRef

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Review

IBD

Optimizing 5-aminosalicylate for moderate ulcerative colitis: expert recommendations from the Asia-Pacific, Middle East, and Africa Inflammatory Bowel Disease Coalition: Filiz Akyüz, Yoon Kyo An, Jakob Begun, Satimai Aniwan, Huu Hoang Bui, Webber Chan, Chang Hwan Choi, Nazeer Chopdat, Susan J Connor, Devendra Desai, Emma Flanagan, Taku Kobayashi, Allen Yu-Hung Lai, Rupert W Leong, Alex Hwong-Ruey Leow, Wai Keung Leung, Julajak Limsrivilai, Virly Nanda Muzellina, Kiran Peddi, Zhihua Ran, Shu Chen Wei, Jose Sollano, Michelle Mui Hian Teo, Kaichun Wu, Byong Duk Ye, Choon Jin Ooi; Intest Res 2025;23(1):37-55. Published online November 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.5217/ir.2024.00089

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