Verification and validation of a biomarker panel identifying individuals at high risk to develop Crohn’s disease allowing interception of disease development (INTERCEPT)

Crohn’s disease (CD) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the digestive tract, with rising global prevalence. Current clinical care focuses on managing flares, complications, and cancer risk, requiring lifelong treatment. However, a shift towards preventing CD development is crucial. This project aims to validate serum biomarkers predicting CD onset by analyzing Lifelines participants’ sera from before their diagnosis. These findings will provide insights into mechanisms preceding CD and identify biomarkers enabling early diagnosis. This could facilitate preventive strategies for high-risk individuals through lifestyle changes, dietary interventions, and early treatment, advancing CD care from reactive management to proactive prevention