Understanding How Cells Change in the Esophagus
Cell Fate Regulation in Esophageal Progenitor Cells
This research explores how cells in the esophagus decide what they will become, which is important for understanding conditions like Barrett's esophagus and certain cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11085154 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
When cells in the esophagus change from their normal identity, it can lead to serious conditions like Barrett's esophagus and a type of cancer called small cell carcinoma. We currently lack effective treatments because we don't fully understand why these cell changes happen. This project focuses on a key protein called p63, which helps keep esophageal cells healthy and prevents them from transforming into other cell types. Researchers have found that when p63 is missing, cells can change into neuroendocrine cells, a type seen in small cell carcinoma. By understanding how p63 works and how it can be reactivated, we hope to find new ways to help patients with these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals affected by Barrett's esophagus or small cell carcinoma of the esophagus in the future.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to esophageal cell identity changes, such as Barrett's esophagus or small cell carcinoma, would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Barrett's esophagus and small cell carcinoma of the esophagus.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds on existing knowledge about p63's role in esophageal development while exploring novel mechanisms of cell fate regulation and potential therapeutic targets.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Que, Jianwen — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Que, Jianwen
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.