Mechanisms of mucosal recovery and progression to fibrosis in inflammatory bowel disease

We analyse the role of innate immunity, especially that of the different macrophage phenotypes, in mechanisms of mucosal recovery and development of fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. In particular, we explore the relevance of the Wnt signalling pathway (ligands, inhibitors and receptors) in these processes. In addition, we assess the functional relevance of certain genetic polymorphisms in the evolution of inflammatory bowel disease.