Understanding early growth changes in the gastroesophageal junction
Official title: Modeling Pathways of Early Growth Dysregulation at the GEJ
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11078741 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain changes in cells at the junction of the stomach and esophagus can lead to problems like cancer, using tiny lab-grown models made from human tissue to better understand what goes wrong and how it might be treated.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $706,758 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK135562-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078741 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of gastroesophageal junction disorders or those at risk for developing related neoplasias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with unrelated gastrointestinal conditions or those who do not have any risk factors for GEJ disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular biology of the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ) by creating 3D organoid models derived from human tissue. Using advanced CRISPR-Cas9 genome editing, researchers are generating organoids that mimic early genetic changes associated with neoplasia in the GEJ. The study aims to explore how specific lipid profiles and signaling pathways contribute to abnormal growth and differentiation in these organoids, potentially leading to new insights into GEJ-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with gastroesophageal junction disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using organoid models to study cancer biology, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meltzer, Stephen J — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Meltzer, Stephen J
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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.