Role of genetics in the diagnosis and prognosis of Crohn's disease

Table 2 Predicted future developments in the genetics of Crohn's disease

What lies ahead in the genetics of Crohn’s disease

Gene-to-gene crosstalk and epistasis

Genome wide association studies

Microarrays

Fine single nucleotide polymorphism analysis

Genetic consortium studies and genome wide scans

Genome-wide association studies

Genetic consortium studies

Future perspectives

Functional studies to understand the mechanisms

Combining genetic data with functional data

Combination of a panel of clinical, biochemical, serological and genetic factors

Functional consequences of polymorphisms

Molecular and cellular mechanisms leading to Crohn's disease

Predict disease outcomes

Redesigning the methods of treatment