Understanding how certain stomach cells can lead to gastric cancer

Cell plasticity in the origin of gastric carcinogenesis

NIH-funded research Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10912694

This study is looking at special stomach cells that might help us understand how some stomach issues can turn into cancer, with the hope that what we learn could lead to better ways to prevent or treat gastric cancer for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Nashville, United States)
Project IDNIH-10912694 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific stomach cells, known as spasmolytic polypeptide-expressing metaplasia (SPEM) cells, in the development of gastric cancer. It aims to understand how these cells can change and contribute to the progression from pre-cancerous conditions to cancerous states. By using advanced techniques like ATAC sequencing and CRISPR, the study will explore the genetic and epigenetic changes that occur during this process. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention or treatment strategies for gastric cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with pre-cancerous gastric conditions or those at high risk for gastric cancer.

Not a fit: Patients with established gastric cancer or those without any gastric conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating gastric cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cancer progression through similar cellular and genetic approaches.

Where this research is happening

Nashville, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.