How radiation-linked ATF2 signaling may lead to esophageal cancer
Mechanistic understanding of role of ATF2 signaling in radiation-induced esophageal cancer
Researchers will find out if a stress-related protein called ATF2 helps radiation trigger esophageal squamous cell cancer, which is especially relevant to people who've had therapeutic radiation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Las Vegas NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Las Vegas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11292407 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses lab-grown 3-D esophagus tissue models to mimic how radiation affects real esophageal cells. Scientists will study how TGFβ-driven activation of the protein ATF2 leads to changes called epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) that can promote cancer. They will examine how those signaling changes reshape the tissue microenvironment and look for molecular biomarkers tied to radiation-driven tumor start and progression. The goal is to reveal signals that could point to early detection or new prevention targets for radiation-related ESCC.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This work is most relevant to people who have had therapeutic radiation near the chest or neck or those at risk for esophageal squamous cell carcinoma after radiation exposure.
Not a fit: People with esophageal adenocarcinoma that is not linked to radiation exposure, or those without any history of therapeutic radiation, may not directly benefit from these results.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could identify biomarkers or molecular targets that help detect or prevent radiation-induced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma earlier.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory work links persistent phosphorylated ATF2 signaling to EMT, but applying these findings toward patient tests or treatments is a relatively new direction.
Where this research is happening
Las Vegas, United States
- University of Nevada Las Vegas — Las Vegas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pluth, Janice M — University of Nevada Las Vegas
- Study coordinator: Pluth, Janice M
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.