Tracking cell changes to predict cancer risk in Barrett's esophagus
Modeling Neoplastic Progression in Barrett's Esophagus - Renewal -2
Researchers will measure how quickly cells change in Barrett's esophagus to see if that can indicate who is more likely to develop esophageal cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11261772 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If I have Barrett's esophagus, this project looks at my biopsy samples taken over time and across the affected area to measure how cell populations change. Scientists will use genetic and evolutionary models to estimate rates such as mutation rate, stem cell numbers, and selection strength from those biopsies. They will combine spatial and time‑series biopsy data to fit population genetic and phylogenetic models that describe how the tissue evolves. The goal is to use those calculated rates to predict which patients are at higher risk of progressing to esophageal adenocarcinoma.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people diagnosed with Barrett's esophagus who can provide longitudinal biopsy samples and clinical follow‑up information.
Not a fit: People without Barrett's esophagus, those with advanced esophageal cancer already, or anyone unwilling or unable to provide biopsy samples are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could help identify which people with Barrett's esophagus need closer surveillance or earlier treatment while sparing low‑risk patients from unnecessary procedures.
How similar studies have performed: Prior biomarker and genomic studies in Barrett's have had mixed results, and using evolutionary rate measures is a newer approach that shows promise but is not yet proven in clinical practice.
Where this research is happening
Scottsdale, United States
- Arizona State University-Tempe Campus — Scottsdale, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maley, Carlo — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Maley, Carlo
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 below.