Researchers introduced exfoliome sequencing (Foli‑seq), a method to profile host mRNAs from shed intestinal cells in feces to track gut epithelial and immune dynamics noninvasively. Published in Nature Communications and demonstrated across murine colitis models and human IBD cohorts, Foli‑seq resolved temporal epithelial damage, immune responses and patient stratification signals that correlated with disease severity. The technique leverages targeted amplification to overcome RNA degradation and offers a longitudinal strategy for monitoring gut health and host–microbe interactions without biopsy. Authors propose Foli‑seq as a translational tool for drug development and patient monitoring in inflammatory bowel disease.