A new device to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Official title: Clinical Feasibility Study of a Novel Flexible, Non-occlusive GERD Treatment Device
Funded at Aplos Medical INC · NIH-10634514 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new, easy-to-use device called the Ω-Cuff that helps people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) by reducing acid reflux without surgery that changes the esophagus, so you can feel better and rely less on medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Aplos Medical INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Eden Prairie, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $451,317 |
| NIH project number | 5R44DK127882-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10634514 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease who are seeking alternatives to medication or traditional surgical options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have GERD or those who are not suitable candidates for surgical interventions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a flexible, non-occlusive device called the Ω-Cuff to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). GERD occurs when stomach acid frequently flows back into the esophagus, causing discomfort and potential serious health issues. The Ω-Cuff is designed to be implanted using a minimally invasive laparoscopic procedure, which avoids altering the anatomy of the esophagus. This device aims to reduce reliance on long-term medications and improve patient outcomes by providing a safer and more effective treatment option.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment for GERD, reducing the need for medications and improving quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success with similar minimally invasive approaches to treating GERD, indicating potential for this novel device.
Where this research is happening
-
Aplos Medical INC
Eden Prairie, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tihon, Claude Nmn — Aplos Medical INC
- Study coordinator: Tihon, Claude Nmn
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Omega PF device: a new, easier surgical option for drug-resistant GERD
A new medical device aims to replace complicated GERD surgery with a simpler, safer procedure for people whose reflux isn’t controlled by medicines.
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Pathophysiology-based GERD management in NICU infants guided by pH-impedance testing
A NICU randomized trial tests how newborns with suspected GERD respond to standard care, acid-suppressing therapy, or thicker feeds guided by objective pH-impedance tests.
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A safer sleeve surgery to reduce reflux after weight-loss surgery
A new version of vertical sleeve gastrectomy is being tested to lower the chance of acid reflux and reduce the risk of Barrett’s esophagus in people considering or having weight-loss surgery.
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Reducing over-alertness and stress responses that worsen acid reflux
This work tests whether calming excessive vigilance and automatic stress reactions can help adults with GERD have fewer symptoms and better quality of life.
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Repurposing Fosamprenavir to Help Older Adults with GERD
A clinician-scientist team is testing a repurposed HIV drug, fosamprenavir, combined with sodium alginate, to relieve persistent GERD symptoms in older adults who don’t respond well to standard acid-suppressing therapy.
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Surgical technique to reduce acid reflux after sleeve gastrectomy
This trial tests a modified sleeve gastrectomy designed to lower new or worsening acid reflux in adults with obesity who are having bariatric surgery.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.