How two common types of stomach cancer begin

Initiation of Diffuse and Intestinal Non-Cardia Gastric Cancer

NIH-funded research Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11187015

Researchers will use engineered mouse models and advanced tissue mapping to learn how genetic changes and H. pylori infection lead to the two main forms of stomach cancer, aiming to help people at risk.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionColumbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11187015 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This project models the early genetic hits (like CDH1 and p53 loss) and environmental exposures (Helicobacter pylori and dietary nitrates) that drive the two main types of stomach cancer using engineered mouse models. Scientists will profile individual cells with combined gene-expression and chromatin-accessibility tools and then map those cell types back into their normal spatial location in the stomach using spatial transcriptomics. By linking genetics, environment, and precise cell identity, the team aims to define the cells of origin and the molecular steps that lead to cancer. That information could point to early detection markers or prevention targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: People who might be most relevant include those with hereditary CDH1 mutations, chronic H. pylori infection, or a strong family history of stomach cancer who are interested in contributing samples or participating in future related studies.

Not a fit: Patients needing immediate treatment for existing stomach cancer are unlikely to receive direct clinical benefit from this basic-science project.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify early markers or targets that help prevent or detect diffuse and intestinal stomach cancers sooner.

How similar studies have performed: Related single-cell and spatial profiling approaches have helped reveal cell types and origins in other cancers, but combining these methods specifically for diffuse and intestinal gastric cancer is relatively new.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.