This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Growth failure and poor tissue healing are significant complications for many children with chronic inflammatory diseases including Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). The primary focus of Dr. Denson's research project is to determine the mechanisms by which chronic inflammation inhibits normal childhood growth and tissue healing. These studies involve children with a type of IBD called Crohn's disease. We are specifically examining the manner in which chronic inflammation blocks beneficial actions of growth hormone, leading to poor growth and tissue healing. Conversely, we are also examining new anti-inflammatory effects of growth hormone itself. This work has recently led to the identification of specific inflammatory proteins which may serve as targets for new therapies, as well as the potential for using growth hormone together with standard therapy. Ongoing studies in children with Crohn's disease will now determine the effectiveness of blocking these inflammatory proteins. This work should lead to improved therapeutic approaches for childhood IBD which will optimize both growth and intestinal healing.
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