Proteases as novel target to treat visceral hypersensitivity KU Leuven
Up to 20% of individuals in the world population suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a gastrointestinal disorder characterized by chronic abdominal pain and altered bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea. It is now well established that abdominal pain in IBS patients is caused by sensitization of ion channels in sensory nerve fibres, leading to visceral hypersensitivity. We have recently identified histamine as a major ...