A research team at NUI Maynooth has made a breakthrough discovery that could lead to the treatment of Crohn's disease.

Researches at the Co Kildare University-along with support from collaborators in Trinity College Dublin and University College Cork, have discovered the crucial role a protein called 'Pellino3' has in controlling unwanted inflammation in the intestine.

It's hoped the discovery is a step closer to protecting against the development of inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's which currently has no cure and affects millions of people across the globe.

The protein is broken down and rendered ineffective-in people who suffer from IBD and it is estimated around 15,000 people in Ireland suffer from the disorder.

The head of the Department of Biology and Director of the Institute of Immunology at NUI Maynooth, Professor Paul Moynagh explains.