The main symptoms described by patients with FGIDs include abdominal pain, dyspepsia, regurgitation, bloating, constipation, diarrhea, incontinence, problems in the passage of food or stool, or any combination of these symptoms. The article also discusses the potential role of artificial intelligence and machine learning and its possible role in our understanding of these scientifically challenging disorders.įunctional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) are a highly prevalent group of disorders diagnosed solely by symptomatology as there is a lack of understanding of the underlying structural or chemical abnormalities. These molecules and their receptors can be targeted in future for further studies and possible therapeutic interventions. This review study looks at the anatomical features of the gut-brain axis in order to discuss the different factors and underlying molecular mechanisms that may have a role in the pathogenesis of functional gastrointestinal disorders. Although we have come a long way in our understanding of these complex disorders with the help of studies on animals especially rodents, there need to be more studies in humans, especially to identify the therapeutic targets. Complex mechanisms underlying the disturbances in the bidirectional communication between the gastrointestinal tract and the brain have a vital role in the pathogenesis and are key to our understanding of the disease phenomenon. Despite their high prevalence, lack of understanding of the exact pathophysiology of the functional gastrointestinal disorders has restricted us to symptomatic diagnostic tools and therapies.

Gut Feelings by C.G. Moore