Assessment of Colonic Epithelial Integrity With Mucosal Impedance

Assessment of Colonic Epithelial Integrity With Mucosal Impedance

In this study, the investigators propose to use mucosal impedance (MI), a minimally invasive technology, to detect mucosal damage (i.e. barrier dysfunction) based on mucosal conductivity changes in the colonic epithelium.

The intestinal epithelium functions to separate luminal contents from the interstitium. Increased intestinal permeability can represent compromise of the epithelium's integrity. Prior research has demonstrated that defects in intestinal barrier function are associated with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and increased intestinal permeability can be important in the maintenance of remission in IBD patients. There is currently not a convenient way to measure colonic epithelial barrier function in real time which could provide clinically relevant information .

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women over the age of 18 with a diagnosis of IBD (Ulcerative Colitis or Crohn's Disease)
• Men and women undergoing screening colonoscopy (typical age would be 50 or greater but there are exceptions)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Age less than 18 years old
• Patients unable to give informed consent
• Patients with history of colonic surgeries
• Patients with history of colonic motility disorder