How AHR, OVOL1, and SPINK7 affect eosinophilic esophagitis
Role of AHR, OVOL1, and SPINK7 in Eosinophilic Esophagitis
This work looks at how three proteins in the esophagus (AHR, OVOL1, and SPINK7) may protect people who have eosinophilic esophagitis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103194 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are studying how the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) activates the transcription factor OVOL1, which in turn controls production of the protective protein SPINK7 in the esophagus. They will examine esophageal tissue and cell samples and use laboratory models to see how allergy-related signals like IL-4 and IL-13 shut down this protective pathway. The project combines molecular lab experiments with patient-derived samples and clinical information from people with EoE and related allergic conditions. The team aims to define what controls SPINK7 so new tests or treatments can be developed to restore esophageal barrier function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with eosinophilic esophagitis—especially those willing to provide clinical information or esophageal biopsy samples, including adults and older adolescents—would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without EoE, those unable or unwilling to undergo endoscopy/biopsy, or those seeking immediate treatment are unlikely to receive direct benefit from participating.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets or diagnostic markers to help restore the esophageal barrier and reduce inflammation for people with EoE.
How similar studies have performed: Earlier work has linked SPINK7 loss to EoE in patient samples and lab models, but targeting the AHR→OVOL1→SPINK7 pathway as a therapy is a fairly new approach.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothenberg, Marc E. — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Rothenberg, Marc E.
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 below.