Investigating the common origin of esophageal and gastric cancers
Official title: Common Stem Cell of Origin for Junctional and Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Funded at University of Houston · NIH-10925194 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how esophageal adenocarcinoma and intestinal gastric cancer start and develop, aiming to find early warning signs and better treatments for people dealing with these cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $888,662 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA272906-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925194 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults with Barrett's esophagus or gastric intestinal metaplasia, as well as those diagnosed with esophageal adenocarcinoma or intestinal gastric cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of cancers unrelated to the esophagus or stomach may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the shared origins and genetic characteristics of esophageal adenocarcinoma and intestinal gastric cancer. It aims to identify the earliest precancerous lesions, such as Barrett's esophagus and gastric intestinal metaplasia, and how they progress to invasive disease. The research employs a collaborative approach involving oncologists, stem cell biologists, and cancer modeling experts to explore the cellular origins and potential treatments for these cancers. By utilizing advanced technologies, the team seeks to improve detection and therapeutic strategies for patients affected by these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved detection methods and treatment options for esophageal and gastric cancers.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic links between esophageal and gastric cancers, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mckeon, Frank D. — University of Houston
- Study coordinator: Mckeon, Frank D.
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding how CDH1 loss drives aggressive stomach cancer and how to target it
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Common stem cell origin in Barrett's-related cancers
This research looks at whether a single stem cell type drives both esophageal and gastric cancers that arise from Barrett’s esophagus, with the aim of finding shared clues to prevent or treat these diseases.
-
Shared stem cell source for lower esophagus and upper stomach cancers
This project looks at whether the same type of stem cell drives cancers that start in Barrett's esophagus and the nearby stomach, with implications for people who have Barrett's esophagus or gastric intestinal metaplasia.
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This project looks for ways to block a protein called YAP1 to help people with advanced stomach (gastric) cancer that has spread to the lining of the abdomen.
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Understanding how certain genetic changes lead to advanced stomach cancer
This study is looking into how a specific gene called CDH1 affects the growth of advanced stomach cancer, with the hope of finding better treatment options tailored to different types of the disease, so that patients can receive care that works best for them.
-
Understanding and targeting cancer stemness and immune suppression in advanced gastric cancer
This study is looking at how a protein called YAP1 affects advanced stomach cancer, especially in patients with cancer that has spread to the lining of the abdomen, to find new ways to treat this tough condition and help improve outcomes for patients.
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.