Despite improved health and longevity, immune mediated bowel disorders are increasingly diagnosed, at ever younger ages. Crohn's disease is an incurable inflammatory bowel disease for which Canada has the world's highest reported incidence. My research project applies an innovative translational research plan devoted towards understanding the causes of immune mediated gastrointestinal disorders, earlier diagnosis, improved treatments and ultimately their prevention. Our multidisciplinary team applies diverse methodologies to study interactions between the hosts genes, immune response and environmental risk factors, particularly microbes and diet. Other projects examine nutriceutical modulation of the host immune response and prevention of complications, such as colon cancer.