Disruption of Transcription Networks in Esophageal Adenocarcinoma Tumorigenesis
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11362544 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A research program at a major medical school is studying how certain gene networks and cellular processes contribute to the development of esophageal cancer in people with Barrett's esophagus and reflux.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $1,544,026 |
| NIH project number | 5P01CA268991-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11362544 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with Barrett's esophagus or GERD who could be candidates for future targeted therapies or participation in translational studies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without esophageal cancer or Barrett's/esophageal pathology may not directly benefit from this program.
What this research studies
This project explores how specific transcription factors and protein modifications drive esophageal cancer in the context of reflux-related damage. It uses advanced animal models, 3-D cell systems, human tissues, and patient-derived samples to uncover mechanisms and test potential inhibitors. The work aims to translate findings into strategies to curb cancer cell survival and growth in the esophagus. Patients with Barrett’s esophagus or GERD may benefit from future therapies developed from these insights.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, it could lead to new treatments that target the transcription networks sustaining esophageal cancer.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work has shown that transcription factors and oxidative stress-related modifications can influence cancer progression, with ongoing advances in targeting these pathways.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: El-Rifai, Wael — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: El-Rifai, Wael
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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.