The major interest of Professor Andrew Silver and Mr Mohamed Thaha is colorectal cancer. This includes the identification of susceptibility genetic variants and modifiers of colorectal cancer (CRC) severity, and use of biomarkers of risk and outcome to facilitate stratified management in the clinic. Current studies are focussed on early onset CRC and the potential mechanistic links between type 2 diabetes and the risk of developing CRC. The genomics approach is also being applied to other types of gastro-intestinal cancers including oesophageal cancer with Professor David Kelsell. In collaboration with Dr James Lindsay the colorectal team have a strong programme of research in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This includes the identification of tissue and serum-based biomarkers for early detection of lesions in ulcerative colitis and fibrosis in Crohn’s disease. The group is also investigating the use of specific Histone deacetylase inhibitors for use in IBD control.