Research Program
Coeliac Disease
Wesley Research Institute is developing a world leading multi-disciplinary research program for Coeliac Disease and Immune Health.
About this research program
An estimated one in 70 Australians have Coeliac Disease which is caused when an intolerance to gluten in wheat, rye and barley products triggers an autoimmune response that attacks the small intestine. However, it is estimated that more than 80 per cent of all Australian coeliac sufferers remain undiagnosed.
If left untreated, coeliac disease is associated with a three-fold increase in the risk of autoimmune diseases, osteoporosis, and malignancy, decreased quality of life, and a two to four-fold increase immortality.
The disease can also lead to juvenile tooth decay, malnutrition, depression, and infertility. Patients with coeliac disease can experience a wide range of symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhoea, constipation, fatigue and weight loss.
Coeliac Research Network
Wesley Research institute is developing a new research network focusing on Coeliac Disease and immune health research.
Through this network, we expect to bring together coeliac disease experts, like gastroenterologists, paediatric gastroenterologists, gastrosurgeons, and mucosal immunologists, to work together to really progress the multi-disciplinary research program.
Research Objectives
Improve understanding
The gluten threshold study is investigating whether there is an amount of gluten that coeliac patients can tolerate. The results will also help to influence food safety standards.
Increase quality of Life
The dental enamel defects study aims to investigate the incidence of undiagnosed coeliac disease in children. If we can diagnose children earlier in life, this will prevent many future health issues.
Creating communities
Through the new Coeilac Research Network, we hope to bring patients, clinicians and scientists together to really progress the multi-disciplinary research program.
Research Goals
Research into faster and more accurate diagnosis
Improve understanding around the causes of disease and better prediction of disease progression
Increase survival and quality of life for patients and families
Clinical Trials
Coeliac Research Study
Gluten Threshold Study
