Setting our Sights toward the Future

Since 1967, the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA) has been the leader in inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) research and has played a role in every major research breakthrough.

CCFA has invested more than $167 million in IBD research. From the Foundation’s inception, as technology and science advanced, CCFA has recruited the top IBD thought leaders from around the world. We have worked closely with these scientists to identify the priorities and resources that are essential for moving research from the laboratory bench to the patient's bedside.

Our approach is unique. We are committed to fostering and supporting the collaborative thinking of multiple laboratories – a connected, high powered, well-funded community of dedicated investigators. CCFA is relentless in its pursuit for cures.

New Developments and Current “Challenges in IBD Research”

"Challenges in IBD Research" is a strategic plan formulated by CCFA’s scientific leadership. The "Challenges" directives provide a roadmap for all of CCFA's research programs. Launched in 1990, this comprehensive plan is updated periodically to reflect leading-edge scientific thinking and advances in research. With a new report in development, the 2008 report supports the hypothesis that: "Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is due to an abnormal cell-mediated immune reaction—primarily by CD4_ T cells—to the antigens and adjuvants of the enteric bacteria in genetically susceptible hosts."

Download the 2008 Challenges in IBD Research