Published: 16/06/2026 Tags: Medical & Scientific News

Research Roundup: New Research in EDS and HSD

This Roundup includes studies on gastrointestinal complications linked to an AEBP1 variant, genetics and ankle instability in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), symptom patterns in pediatric generalized hypermobility spectrum disorders (pgHSD), and altered eating behaviors in women with EDS. 

Research is an ongoing process, and individual studies contribute to a larger body of evidence. If you’re new to reading research, learn how to find and interpret research papers below.

Gastrointestinal involvement in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome classical-like type 2 associated with a novel AEBP1 splice-site variant 

A case report identified a new AEBP1 variant in a person who experienced spontaneous bowel perforation. Researchers suggested gastrointestinal complications may occur as part of this genetic variant. 

These findings may support future research into variant-specific gastrointestinal risks.

Authors: Nakahara H, Yamaguchi T, Niitsu H, Abe A, Hayashi R, Oka S, Arihiro K, Kosho T, Hinoi 

DOI: 10.1038/s10038-026-01480-z

 

Genetic Causes and Ankle Instability in Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS): An Integrated Analysis Using Whole-Exome Sequencing and Stress Imaging 

Genetic testing in 22 people with hypermobile EDS (hEDS) identified they had variants in CD44, ITIH2, and ADAM21. Researchers also found greater ankle instability in people with hEDS compared to controls. 

These findings support further research into the biological mechanisms of hEDS and suggest ankle instability may not be fully captured by current assessment tools. Larger studies are needed to validate these findings.

Authors: Kim J, Lee H, Kim S, Lee S, Cho M, Shin J, Yoon Y, Lee J, Kang Y, Kang D, Jo S, Kang C, Kim N, Song J

DOI: 10.3390/jcm15103881

 

Age-related symptom clustering in pediatric hypermobility spectrum disorders: a scoping review 

A review of 27 studies identified eight recurring symptom clusters in children and adolescents with pediatric generalized hypermobility spectrum disorders (pgHSD).  

Common features included: 

  • Joint instability 
  • Chronic pain 
  • Fatigue 
  • Orthostatic intolerance 
  • Gastrointestinal issues 

These findings may support earlier recognition of HSD and guide future research into improving diagnostic accuracy. 

Authors: Pochcial P, Solomon S, Bruno K, Fairweather D, Kinane A, Letzkus L, Gurka K, Stephens I, Knight D

DOI: 10.1186/s13023-026-04424-0

 

Insights in altered eating behaviors in women with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes 

An online survey of 121 women with self-reported EDS found that gastrointestinal issues, food allergies, and oral pain were linked to fearful and painful eating experiences.  

These findings give evidence that eating difficulties in EDS may be influenced by physical symptoms as well as psychological factors.  

Authors: Baeza-Velasco C, Tasa-Vinyals E, Espinoza P, Guillaume S, Mora M, Bulbena A, Lorente S, Mora M 

DOI: 10.1007/s40519-026-01872-2

 

Learn more: 

Join The Ehlers-Danlos Society’s message board

Inspire

The Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders Support Community connects patients, families, friends and caregivers for knowledge, support and inspiration.

This community is sponsored by the Ehlers-Danlos Society, an Inspire trusted partner.

 

Related Posts

View all Posts

Sign up to The Ehlers-Danlos Society mailing list