Research into pain brings hope

Dr David Bulmer is leading a team at the University of Cambridge, looking at how can pain be managed in people with Crohn’s and Colitis.

Along with co-investigator Dr Tim Raine, Dr Bulmer will study MMPs – matrix metalloproteinases – the enzymes that cause tissue damage and inflammation.

There are lots of different reasons why people with Crohn’s or Colitis suffer from pain. It can be because of surgery, or someone’s bowel structure, but a large number of people feel pain even when they’re in remission. 

Dr Bulmer’s research seeks to use MMP inhibitors to identify which of the enzymes stimulate pain-sensitive nerves in Crohn’s and Colitis. This brings hope that the use of the inhibitors could work as an effective treatment of abdominal pain in patients with Crohn's and Colitis.

Funding this exciting research project has only been made possible by the generous support of Crohn's & Colitis UK supporters.

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