May 15, 2026
This study tests whether a drug called etrasimod safely reduces inflammation in teens (ages 12–17) with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis. Participants spend one year on the medication, then have the option to continue for up to four more years to see how well it works long-term. The results could offer a new treatment option for young people with UC.
Who qualifies: Ages 12–17, any sex, with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis
Where: Little Rock, AR; Garden Grove, CA
View on ClinicalTrials.gov →This study explores whether a specialized stem cell transplant can treat Common Variable Immunodeficiency and related rare immune disorders that often cause digestive problems. The procedure uses a gentler conditioning approach than standard transplants. It's designed for people ages 5–40 with these complex immune conditions.
Who qualifies: Ages 5–40, any sex, diagnosed with CVID or specific primary immune regulatory disorders
Where: Pittsburgh, PA
View on ClinicalTrials.gov →This at-home study tests whether a digestive enzyme blend designed to break down FODMAPs (fermentable carbs that trigger bloating) actually reduces bloating and other IBS symptoms. Participants take the enzyme or placebo over several weeks and report their symptoms through a smartphone app. It's a flexible alternative to the restrictive low-FODMAP diet.
Who qualifies: Ages 18+, any sex, with self-reported bloating and/or IBS
Where: Los Angeles, CA
View on ClinicalTrials.gov →Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 2024 · Cristofori F et al.
Key takeaway
The low-FODMAP diet does help children with IBS, but not everyone responds the same way. Understanding why some kids improve more than others—using metabolomic analysis—could help predict who will benefit most before they start the diet.
Researchers tested the low-FODMAP diet in children with IBS using a randomized crossover design and looked at metabolic markers to understand why responses differ. They found the diet was effective overall, but identified biological differences that explain why some children see more symptom relief than others.
Read on PubMed →Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 2024 · Pimentel M et al.
Key takeaway
Breath testing for SIBO now measures three gases instead of two, including hydrogen sulfide, which is linked to diarrhea. If you're considering or undergoing breath testing, ask your provider whether they're using the newer three-gas version for a more complete picture.
This nationwide real-world study evaluated three-gas breath testing—hydrogen, methane, and the newly added hydrogen sulfide—and compared results to patient symptoms. The addition of hydrogen sulfide measurement provides better correlation with specific symptom patterns, especially diarrhea.
Read on PubMed →JGH Open, 2024 · Mathias RM et al.
Key takeaway
Intestinal ultrasound is a simple, safe imaging tool that can now help confirm diagnoses in people with IBS and other gut-brain disorders, reducing uncertainty when working with a dietitian or gastroenterologist.
Researchers evaluated intestinal ultrasound as a diagnostic tool within a dietitian-led clinic for people with disorders of gut-brain interaction. They found that ultrasound added diagnostic confidence and safety, providing objective evidence to support clinical judgment in conditions where diagnosis is typically based on symptom criteria alone.
Read on PubMed →