Understanding swallowing difficulties and their treatment
Official title: Evolution of the Chicago Classification: Bridging Physiology and Mechanics
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10979070 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why some people have trouble swallowing and experience heartburn, focusing on how the esophagus works when we eat, to help doctors find better ways to diagnose and treat these issues for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $435,915 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK137775-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979070 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing swallowing difficulties or gastroesophageal reflux disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-esophageal related swallowing issues or those without dysphagia or GERD may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the causes of swallowing difficulties, known as dysphagia, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), focusing on the biomechanics of the esophagus rather than just muscle activity. By developing new models that assess how the esophagus responds to food and pressure, the research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for patients suffering from these conditions. The study will utilize advanced techniques to measure esophageal function and develop predictive models to better understand symptoms and treatment outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for swallowing difficulties and related disorders, improving patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding esophageal function and treatment approaches, but this study aims to explore novel methodologies that have not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pandolfino, John E — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pandolfino, John E
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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.