Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is a inflammatory digestive disorder that arises from four major contributing factors: 1.) Genetics, 2.) Microbiome, 3.) Immune Cell Dysregulation, 4.) Environmental Triggers. Colitis is a form of IBD and a majority of patients fall under two major classifications based on the area/location of inflammation and the extent of damage that occurs in the GI tract during disease, which include: 1.) Ulcerative Colitis or UC, and 2.) Crohn’s Disease or CD. UC often occurs only in the large intestine or colon, with a continuous area of inflammation that results in more superficial damage to the tissue. CD results in scattered and or patchy areas of inflammation throughout the GI tract, to include the colon and small intestine. In general, the resulting damage to the GI tract with CD patients is more severe with damage extending deep into the tissue. Unmet needs in the IBD patient population include safe and effective prolonged treatments, or a cure. Our research lab focuses on identifying potential new therapies and options for IBD patients.