Understanding Esophageal Atresia and Tracheoesophageal Fistula using human organoids
Project-3: Modeling EA/TEF in human organoids
This project helps us learn more about a birth defect called esophageal atresia, where the esophagus doesn't form correctly, by growing tiny human esophagus models in the lab.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11121928 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Esophageal atresia (EA) and tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF) are common birth defects where the tube connecting your mouth to your stomach doesn't develop properly. We are creating miniature versions of human esophageal tissue, called organoids, from stem cells to better understand why these conditions happen. By studying these organoids, we hope to uncover the genetic and developmental reasons behind EA and TEF. This knowledge could lead to new ways to treat or even prevent these conditions in the future, and potentially offer new tissues for reconstruction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit children born with esophageal atresia or tracheoesophageal fistula.
Not a fit: Patients without esophageal atresia or tracheoesophageal fistula would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of esophageal atresia and tracheoesophageal fistula, paving the way for new treatments or even tissue-based reconstruction options for affected children.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of human organoids for modeling complex birth defects is a cutting-edge approach, similar stem cell-derived models have shown promise in understanding other developmental conditions.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wells, James M — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Wells, James M
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.