Investigating the role of fibrosis in the lower esophageal sphincter for achalasia patients
Official title: Fibrosis of the Lower Esophageal Sphincter in Achalasia
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10918083 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how thickening and scarring of muscle tissue affects swallowing in people with achalasia, and it aims to find new treatment options to help improve their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $150,417 |
| NIH project number | 5K23DK131317-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10918083 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with achalasia who experience difficulties with swallowing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have achalasia or those with other unrelated esophageal disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on achalasia, a condition where the lower esophageal sphincter fails to open properly during swallowing. The study aims to explore how fibrosis, or the thickening and scarring of muscle tissue, affects the function of this sphincter. Using advanced imaging technology and muscle recordings, researchers will investigate the mechanisms behind this fibrosis and its connection to mast cell activation. By understanding these processes, the research hopes to uncover new treatment options for patients suffering from achalasia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve swallowing function and reduce disease recurrence in achalasia patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of achalasia, but this specific focus on fibrosis is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jain, Anand Sagar — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jain, Anand Sagar
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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.