Several research teams in France are highly active and visible in specific domains of the pathophysiology of the digestive system: inflammatory bowel diseases, celiac disease, motility disorders, or hepatitis for instance. These expertises are now structured and gathered within a single research structure. Indeed, unifying within the same institute expertises in mucosal barrier function, microbiota, mucosal immunology, neurogastroenterology, liver and intestinal metabolism would provide a unique opportunity to address digestive pathologies from a broader perspective.

Conditions for such opportunity are now present in Toulouse, because of the considerable growth of 3 specific research teams and thanks to their complementarity. Members of those teams share the common vision of promoting digestive health, focusing on digestive diseases comprehension. 

A new entity, the digestive health research institute (IRSD: Institut de Recherche en Santé Digestive), is now created in Toulouse. 

During the 2015 IRSD retreat, priority is given to the presentation of results by students and postdocs. During the 20 minutes allotted for each speaker, the project will have to be repositioned to the wider public audience. Following the presentation of results, 5 minutes will be devoted to questions and discussion with the members of the institute. Presentations and discussions will be in English.