Understanding how the lower esophageal sphincter controls muscle movement
Control of motility in the lower esophageal sphincter
This study is looking at how certain cells in the lower esophagus help keep the muscle that prevents stomach acid from damaging it working properly, which could lead to new treatments for people with swallowing problems like achalasia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Reno NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Reno, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896956 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that control the muscle tone of the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which is crucial for preventing stomach acid from damaging the esophagus. The study focuses on the role of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and calcium-dependent chloride channels in regulating the excitability of smooth muscle cells in the LES. By using animal models, the researchers aim to uncover how these cells contribute to the maintenance of LES tone and how their dysfunction may lead to conditions like achalasia. The findings could provide insights into new therapeutic approaches for patients suffering from esophageal motility disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with achalasia or other esophageal motility disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with normal esophageal function or those with unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with esophageal motility disorders, such as achalasia.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of interstitial cells in gastrointestinal motility, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Reno, United States
- University of Nevada Reno — Reno, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cobine, Caroline Ann — University of Nevada Reno
- Study coordinator: Cobine, Caroline Ann
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.