For individuals with elevated colonic Avpr1a/Avpr1a expression and VH, vasopressin released in response to stress could result in significant exacerbation of VH through binding of AVP to Avpr1a, thereby linking this receptor to a potential mechanism for the clinically recognized stress-induced exacerbations of abdominal pain seen in IBS and other DGBIs. This evidence concerns the gene AVPR1A and irritable bowel syndrome.