Understanding cancer mechanisms and developing new treatments for esophageal tumors
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Miami VA Health Care System · NIH-11105805 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how certain things, like acid reflux and infections, can lead to stomach and esophagus cancer, and it's for anyone interested in understanding cancer better or finding new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Miami VA Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Miami, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006300-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11105805 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for esophageal cancer, such as those with Barrett's esophagus or chronic acid reflux.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-esophageal cancers or those not experiencing gastrointestinal issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the mechanisms behind cancer development, particularly in gastric and esophageal tumors. Dr. Zaika's team collaborates with various clinical and basic science departments to explore how factors like gastroesophageal reflux and bacterial infections contribute to cancer. They utilize advanced techniques, including single cell RNA sequencing and animal models, to study tumor progression and identify potential treatment strategies. The research also aims to provide training opportunities in cancer science for emerging scientists.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new prevention and treatment strategies for esophageal cancer, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in understanding cancer mechanisms and developing treatments for similar conditions, indicating a promising avenue for this work.
Where this research is happening
-
Miami VA Health Care System
Miami, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zaika, Alexander I. — Miami VA Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Zaika, Alexander I.
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.