Scientists at Tel Aviv University say they have discovered a safer, more effective way to treat chronic bowel diseases such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, conditions that affect millions worldwide.

The method uses a type of genetic material called locked nucleic acids, or LNAs, which are known for their strength and stability.

In the past, these molecules showed promise but required massive doses to work. Those high doses caused dangerous side effects and made the treatment too expensive, leading many experts to give up on the idea.