NEK2's role in esophageal cancer development
Official title: The role of NEK2 in molecular carcinogenesis of esophageal adenocarcinoma
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11448644 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study looking at how the NEK2 protein contributes to the development and progression of esophageal adenocarcinoma in conditions like Barrett’s esophagus.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $457,516 |
| NIH project number | 1R01CA307517-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11448644 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Patients with Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal adenocarcinoma, or those at high risk due to reflux-related changes, may be eligible or benefit from the related translational efforts.
✕Less likely to help
People without Barrett’s esophagus or esophageal cancer may not directly benefit from this study.
What this research studies
This project examines how NEK2, a protein that helps cells divide, becomes overactive in esophageal cancer and how it interacts with ROS and NRF2 under reflux-like stress. Using human cancer cell lines, mouse models, and tissue samples, researchers will map where NEK2 acts and how it affects tumor growth and resistance to treatment. The study builds on preliminary data showing NEK2 and related pathways change in response to acid-bile exposure, with the aim of identifying targets for prevention and therapy. Findings could inform new strategies to prevent Barrett’s progression to cancer and to improve outcomes for patients with EAC.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for preventing or treating esophageal adenocarcinoma and potentially improve survival for patients with Barrett’s esophagus.
How similar studies have gone: Prior research shows NEK2 and related pathways are involved in several cancers, supporting potential relevance to EAC.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peng, Dunfa — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Peng, Dunfa
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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.