We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here. By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies. Cookie Policy.

Features Partner Sites Information LinkXpress hp
Sign In
Advertise with Us
GLOBETECH PUBLISHING LLC

Download Mobile App




New Understanding of Barrett’s Esophagus Formation to Enable Earlier Intervention and Diagnosis

By HospiMedica International staff writers
Posted on 03 Jul 2025

Barrett’s esophagus is a condition in which the lining of the esophagus—normally composed of squamous epithelial cells—undergoes a transformation into cells resembling those found in the stomach or intestine. More...

This usually occurs after prolonged exposure to acid and bile reflux, which reprograms the esophageal tissue to adapt to an environment it was not built to handle. Under the microscope, Barrett’s lesions show abnormal cell proliferation and a disorganized tissue structure with stomach-like and intestinal-like cells. This loss of normal esophageal identity increases the risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma, a highly aggressive cancer with limited treatment options and poor survival rates. Current therapies that reduce acid reflux do not reverse the changes in esophageal cells, and there are no effective early screening techniques. Now, a new study has identified how changes in key regulatory genes may drive this transformation, offering a potential path to early diagnosis and prevention.

A team led by researchers at Baylor College of Medicine (Houston, TX, USA) and Washington University School of Medicine (St. Louis, MO, USA) set out to understand the genetic and cellular mechanisms underlying Barrett’s esophagus. They focused on the transcription factors SOX2 and CDX2, which help maintain the identities of esophageal and intestinal cells, respectively. Using organoids—miniature lab-grown versions of human esophageal tissue—the team built a library from patient samples and manipulated levels of SOX2 and CDX2. They found that lowering SOX2 and increasing CDX2 shifted the cells away from their normal esophageal form and toward a stomach or intestinal identity. To validate these findings, they developed a mouse model in which Sox2 could be selectively turned off in the esophagus. These mice exhibited reduced cell maturation, excessive growth, and abnormal tissue structures at the junction of the esophagus and stomach—features mimicking early-stage Barrett’s esophagus in humans.

The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Investigation, provides strong evidence that Barrett’s esophagus results from acid- and bile-induced reprogramming of esophageal cells via an imbalance in SOX2 and CDX2. The findings reveal how shifts in gene expression compromise esophageal identity, setting the stage for cancer development. The researchers suggest this new understanding could pave the way for early screening tools and targeted interventions to halt the disease before it progresses. Future work will focus on translating these genetic insights into diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that can prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma in high-risk individuals.

Related Links:
Baylor College of Medicine
WashU Medicine


Gold Member
SARS‑CoV‑2/Flu A/Flu B/RSV Sample-To-Answer Test
SARS‑CoV‑2/Flu A/Flu B/RSV Cartridge (CE-IVD)
Gold Member
12-Channel ECG
CM1200B
New
Shoulder System
Identity Shoulder System
New
Electric Bed
DIXION Intensive Care Bed
Read the full article by registering today, it's FREE! It's Free!
Register now for FREE to HospiMedica.com and get access to news and events that shape the world of Hospital Medicine.
  • Free digital version edition of HospiMedica International sent by email on regular basis
  • Free print version of HospiMedica International magazine (available only outside USA and Canada).
  • Free and unlimited access to back issues of HospiMedica International in digital format
  • Free HospiMedica International Newsletter sent every week containing the latest news
  • Free breaking news sent via email
  • Free access to Events Calendar
  • Free access to LinkXpress new product services
  • REGISTRATION IS FREE AND EASY!
Click here to Register








Channels

Surgical Techniques

view channel
Image: For the first time, a fluorescent-guided nerve imaging agent has shown promise for use in humans (Photo courtesy of VUMC)

Fluorescent Imaging Agent ‘Lights Up’ Nerves for Better Visualization During Surgery

Surgical nerve injury is a significant concern in head and neck surgeries, where nerves are at risk of being inadvertently damaged during procedures. Such injuries can lead to complications that may impact... Read more

Patient Care

view channel
Image: The revolutionary automatic IV-Line flushing device set for launch in the EU and US in 2026 (Photo courtesy of Droplet IV)

Revolutionary Automatic IV-Line Flushing Device to Enhance Infusion Care

More than 80% of in-hospital patients receive intravenous (IV) therapy. Every dose of IV medicine delivered in a small volume (<250 mL) infusion bag should be followed by subsequent flushing to ensure... Read more

Business

view channel
Image: A research collaboration aims to further advance findings in human genomics research in cardiovascular diseases (Photo courtesy of 123RF)

Bayer and Broad Institute Extend Research Collaboration to Develop New Cardiovascular Therapies

A research collaboration will focus on the joint discovery of novel therapeutic approaches based on findings in human genomics research related to cardiovascular diseases. Bayer (Berlin, Germany) and... Read more
Copyright © 2000-2025 Globetech Media. All rights reserved.