Update on Genetic Studies of Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders

Childhood functional gastrointestinal disorders are defined as a variable combination of often agedependent, chronic, or recurrent gastrointestinal symptoms not explained by structural or biochemical abnormalities. A better understanding of genetic background of these disorders would help to better identify their complex biology and make it possible to identify subgroups of patients who respond to customized therapies. Family and twin studies have shown a genetic component in irritable bowel syndrome. Candidate gene studies have identified a few genetic polymorphisms that may be associated with functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome. Studies of associations of spontaneous genetic variations and altered functions may provide novel insights of the mechanisms contributing to the disease. [Korean J Pediatr Gastroenterol Nutr 2010; 13(Suppl 1): 25∼31]