Investigating the role of SOX9 in stomach cell changes linked to gastric cancer
Official title: SOX9 as a key transcriptional regulator of SPEM cells in gastric carcinogenesis
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11080757 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called SOX9 affects stomach cells and their changes that can lead to gastric cancer, hoping to find new ways to prevent or treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $7,426 |
| NIH project number | 5F31CA284715-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080757 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for gastric cancer, particularly those with precancerous conditions or a family history of gastric cancer.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced gastric cancer or those who do not have any precancerous conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, SOX9, influences the transformation of stomach cells that can lead to gastric cancer. By studying transgenic mouse models, the researchers aim to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind the development of spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplastic (SPEM) cells, which are crucial in the early stages of gastric carcinogenesis. The study involves examining the expression of SOX9 in gastric tissues and its impact on cell fate during the progression of cancer. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating gastric cancer.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating gastric cancer by targeting the mechanisms involved in cell transformation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting transcription factors can influence cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guenther, Alexis a — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Guenther, Alexis a
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.