Understanding how stretching the esophagus activates nerve signals
Official title: Mechanisms underlying stretch-evoked activation of esophageal vagal afferents
Funded at University of South Florida · NIH-11024994 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerves in the esophagus help control swallowing and food movement, especially for people who have trouble swallowing or experience pain and reflux, to find new ways to help improve their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $594,956 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK141890-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11024994 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing dysphagia, excessive reflux, or other esophageal dysfunctions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without esophageal disorders or those not experiencing swallowing difficulties may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how stretch-sensitive nerves in the esophagus send signals to the brain that control swallowing and movement of food. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind these signals, particularly in patients with conditions that cause swallowing difficulties, excessive reflux, and pain. By exploring the receptors and ion channels involved in these processes, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for treating esophageal dysfunction. Patients with dysphagia or related disorders may benefit from insights gained through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from swallowing difficulties and related esophageal disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While some studies have explored mechanosensitive channels, this research aims to fill a significant gap in understanding and is considered novel in its approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of South Florida
Tampa, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor-Clark, Thomas Edward — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Taylor-Clark, Thomas Edward
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.