Abstract

Attention is drawn to the more important genetic principles which have a bearing on medical problems, and stress is laid on the careful planning necessary if a clinical genetic research project is to produce worthwhile results. There follows a review of the present state of knowledge concerning heredity and various gastroenterological disorders, with suggestions of the lines of research most likely to be rewarding. The view is expressed that the most urgent need is for more knowledge of the genetics of the physiological processes of the gastrointestinal tract.