 Axel is a tyrosine kinase receptor that plays a key role in controlling the balance between the body's immune system and its gut microbiome. When Axel is absent, the gut microbiome becomes imbalanced, leading to inflammation and other symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel disease, IBD. This research suggests that Axel may serve as a potential biomarker for IBD and a potential target for treating the condition. This article was authored by Seminiti, Harim Choi, Jongoon Seon, and others.