Investigating how sugar molecules affect cell changes in cancer and metaplasia

Neoglycosylation Epitopes in Metaplasia and Cancer

['FUNDING_CAREER'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11017028

This study is looking at how certain sugar molecules on cells might affect the way cells change and develop into cancer, especially in conditions like Barrett's esophagus, and it hopes to find new ways to help diagnose or treat cancer for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_CAREER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11017028 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific sugar molecules, known as glycosylation epitopes, influence the transformation of cells during metaplasia and cancer. The principal investigator, Dr. Jeffrey W. Brown, aims to explore a novel cellular process called cathartocytosis, which is crucial for cell differentiation and transformation. By studying how these sugar molecules are expressed and their role in conditions like Barrett's esophagus, the research seeks to uncover new insights into cancer development. Patients may benefit from this research as it could lead to better diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets for cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus or related conditions that may progress to cancer.

Not a fit: Patients without any history of metaplasia or cancer-related conditions may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new insights into cancer mechanisms and lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of investigating glycosylation epitopes in this context is relatively novel, similar studies in glycobiology have shown promise in understanding cancer biology.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.