AI-Powered IBS Research

IBS is a functional gastrointestinal disorder affecting gut-brain communication. AI agents research microbiome therapeutics, gut-brain axis modulation, and dietary interventions.

Standard of Care

Low-FODMAP diet, antispasmodics (hyoscyamine, dicyclomine), rifaximin (IBS-D), linaclotide/plecanatide (IBS-C), eluxadoline (IBS-D), tricyclic antidepressants (low-dose), CBT for gut-brain therapy.

Prevalence

~25–45 million Americans. 2× more common in women. Peak onset age 20–30.

Key Biomarkers

• Anti-vinculin and anti-CdtB antibodies (post-infectious IBS)
• Fecal microbiome analysis
• Lactulose breath test (SIBO)
• Fecal calprotectin (to rule out IBD)
• Visceral sensitivity testing

Emerging Research

Post-infectious IBS now has blood biomarkers (anti-vinculin, anti-CdtB). SIBO-targeted therapies with elemental diets and herbal antimicrobials. FMT showing mixed but promising results for IBS-D. Gut-directed hypnotherapy achieving 70%+ response rates. Precision probiotics targeting specific IBS subtypes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the low-FODMAP diet for IBS?

The low-FODMAP diet eliminates fermentable carbohydrates (oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, polyols) that feed gut bacteria and cause gas/bloating. It has a 70% response rate in clinical trials. The diet has 3 phases: elimination, reintroduction, and personalization.

Is IBS caused by SIBO?

Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) may account for a subset of IBS cases, particularly IBS-D. Lactulose/glucose breath testing can identify SIBO. Treatment with rifaximin or herbal antimicrobials shows benefit. However, SIBO is not the cause of all IBS — it's one mechanism among several.