Identifying patients at risk for esophageal cancer using a new capsule biopsy method

Screening for Barrett's Esophagus Progressors with Multimodality Tethered Capsule Image-Guided Biopsy

['FUNDING_R01'] · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · NIH-10879138

This study is testing a new, easy-to-use capsule that you can swallow to help doctors find out if you have Barrett's esophagus and if you're at risk for cancer, so they can give you the right care without putting you through extra tests you might not need.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10879138 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the screening process for Barrett's esophagus, a condition that can lead to esophageal adenocarcinoma. It aims to utilize innovative swallowable tethered capsule devices that can collect tissue samples without the need for sedation, making screening more accessible. By identifying specific biomarkers in the tissue samples, the research seeks to pinpoint which patients with Barrett's esophagus are at the highest risk of developing cancer, allowing for targeted interventions. This approach could significantly reduce the need for unnecessary follow-ups for low-risk patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus who are at risk of progressing to esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Not a fit: Patients without Barrett's esophagus or those who have already been diagnosed with esophageal adenocarcinoma may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and less invasive screening methods for Barrett's esophagus, ultimately reducing the incidence of esophageal cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for cancer progression, but this specific approach using tethered capsule technology is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Barrett Syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.