Request for Funding

Medical Student Research Fellowship for Summer 2004

Mentor: Rhonda Souza, MD and Annie Feagins, MD
Department: Gastroenterology / Internal Medicine
Room number: VA Research Bld 43, Rm 212
Mail Code: VA Hospital MC#111B1
Phone number: 214-857-0301
E-mail: rsouza@airmail.net OR Annie.Feagins.97@alumni.vanderbilt.edu
Project title: The Role of Oxidant Stress Following Duodeno-Gastro-Esophageal Reflux in the Neoplastic Progression of Barrett's Esophagus

Human subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): Pending R&D Approval

Animal subjects IRB approved project number (where applicable): N/A

Project Type (patient-based research, animal-based research, or basic research; this characterization is only to permit a general classification for grouping similar types of projects)
PATIENT-BASED / BASIC RESEARCH

Brief Description of Project:

Barrett's esophagus frequently is associated with duodenogastroesophageal reflux (DGER), a condition that can enhance reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in the esophagus. High levels of ROS can cause apoptosis and decreased cell growth, whereas ROS at lower levels can increase cell proliferation and decrease apoptosis. Thus, longstanding exposure to ROS could contribute to carcinogenesis in Barrett's esophagus. We are studying the effects of components of DGER (acid, bile salts, or both) on the generation of ROS and associated signaling pathways in a novel telomerase-immortalized, non-neoplastic Barrett's epithelial cell line as well as patient biopsy samples.

Previous Research Activities or Publications with Medical Students:

Numerous

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