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The Armenian Bioinformatics Institute has launched a new study on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in Armenia.
The study explores how changes in the gut lining, the gut microbiome and the immune system are connected, with the goal of identifying early biomarkers that could help predict a flare before symptoms become severe.
Inflammatory bowel disease often comes in waves, with quiet periods followed by sudden flares. Currently, there is no reliable way to know when a flare is approaching.
To understand what changes before a flare, rather than only during one, participants will be followed over time, providing blood and stool samples every ten weeks for two years. The aim is to identify early warning signs through blood and stool samples rather than invasive tests.
To manage the collection, laboratory processing and results of hundreds of samples, the team has also developed a dedicated web app. It follows each sample from collection through laboratory testing and back to the participant's results.
The study is a collaborative effort:
• Clinicians recruit and follow the participants
• Blood tests are performed at Vardanants Medical Center
• Fecal calprotectin tests are performed at Prom-Test Laboratories
• DNA isolation and sequencing are performed at the Institute of Molecular Biology
• Data management is performed at the Armenian Bioinformatics Institute
Special thanks to Vardanants Medical Center and Masis Vardanyan for conducting the laboratory blood tests throughout the study and for supporting the program.
Most importantly, we thank the patients taking part. By participating, they contribute to research into better ways of monitoring inflammatory bowel disease while receiving regular test results throughout the study.
The project receives funding from a Lab Consolidator Grant from the Higher Education and Science Committee.
To participate in the study, learn more about the web app or support the project, contact:
lilit.nersisyan@abi.am
