How environmental factors affect eosinophilic esophagitis
Mechanisms of aryl hydrocarbon receptor control of eosinophilic esophagitis
This research explores how environmental signals influence a protein in our bodies, called AHR, which plays a role in eosinophilic esophagitis, an allergic condition of the esophagus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169675 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an allergic condition where the lining of the esophagus becomes damaged, allowing allergens to trigger an immune response. We know that environmental changes and lifestyle often contribute to allergies, but how these factors specifically cause allergic diseases like EoE is not fully clear. This project focuses on a protein called the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR), which acts like a sensor for various environmental signals, including things we eat or breathe. Our goal is to understand how AHR can both protect the esophagus and, at other times, worsen EoE, by studying its effects on the esophageal lining.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients living with eosinophilic esophagitis could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this fundamental understanding of the disease.
Not a fit: Patients without eosinophilic esophagitis or other allergic diseases of the esophagus would likely not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat eosinophilic esophagitis by targeting how our bodies respond to environmental triggers.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds on prior findings by the team showing AHR's dual role in EoE, but it aims to uncover new molecular details about how environmental factors influence this condition.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Azouz, Nurit P — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Azouz, Nurit P
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.