Improving a biomarker test to predict cancer risk in Barrett's esophagus
Optimization and validation of a biomarker panel for risk stratification in Barrett's esophagus
This project combines and refines lab tests to better tell which people with Barrett's esophagus are more likely to develop esophageal cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11473207 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You would be part of efforts that use genetic and molecular results from earlier studies to find which markers best predict progression from Barrett's esophagus to cancer. Researchers will compare candidate biomarkers in two groups of patients with non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (NDBE) or Barrett's with low-grade dysplasia (LGD). The best combination will be turned into a risk-stratification panel and then checked in a separate U.S. patient cohort to confirm the findings. They will also compare results from standard biopsy samples versus less invasive brush samples to see which sample type works best.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with a diagnosis of Barrett's esophagus, especially those with non-dysplastic Barrett's esophagus (NDBE) or low-grade dysplasia (LGD), are the ideal candidates for this work.
Not a fit: People without Barrett's esophagus or those already diagnosed with high-grade dysplasia or established esophageal cancer are unlikely to benefit from this risk-stratification effort.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the test could help doctors identify who needs closer surveillance or early treatment to prevent esophageal cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genomic studies have identified promising biomarkers, but combining and validating a multi-marker panel across prospective cohorts is relatively new and not yet proven in routine care.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stachler, Matthew D — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Stachler, Matthew D
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.