Pathophysiology And Treatment Of Pharyngo-oesophageal Dysfunction
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$168,275.00
Summary
A number of oral and respiratory tract diseases such as laryngitis, asthma, unexplained cough, sinusitis, and obstructive sleep apnoea, have been linked with gastroesophageal reflux disease. These particular respiratory complications carry significant morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms of regurgitation of gastric acid, via the oesophagus into the pharynx, are unknown. We have recently validated a novel technique to reliably detect acid regurgitation events into the pharynx. We propose to us ....A number of oral and respiratory tract diseases such as laryngitis, asthma, unexplained cough, sinusitis, and obstructive sleep apnoea, have been linked with gastroesophageal reflux disease. These particular respiratory complications carry significant morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms of regurgitation of gastric acid, via the oesophagus into the pharynx, are unknown. We have recently validated a novel technique to reliably detect acid regurgitation events into the pharynx. We propose to use this technique, combined with pressure recordings from the oesophagus and its valves, to determine the precise mechanisms underlying acid regurgitation into the throat. Such studies should lead to better means of treating these disorders.Read moreRead less
Molecular Mechanisms Underlying The Positive Associations Between Male Gender And Leptin With Barretts Oesophagus
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$387,489.00
Summary
Barrett's oesophagus is a disease of the gullet that can lead to the development of oesophageal cancer, which has a very poor outcome. We have shown that the risk of Barrett's oesophagus is greatest in obese males with a high blood level of leptin, a hormone made in fat tissue. The aim of this study is to examine how leptin causes this increased cancer risk, so that new treatments or tests for Barrett's and oesophageal cancer can be developed.
Biomarkers In Barrett's Oesophagus And Oesophageal Adenocarcinoma
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$67,690.00
Summary
Barrett’s oesophagus (BO) is a condition in which the normal lining of the lower oesophagus is replaced with intestine-like tissue as a response to long-standing acid reflux. BO can progress to oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC), an aggressive cancer with poor 5-year survival rates of ~15%. This project aims at detecting genetic and molecular changes that occur in both BO and OAC and which may help predict the risk of progression as well as survival for patients affected by this disease entity.
Blood Serum MicroRNA Biomarkers For Oesophageal Cancer
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$495,433.00
Summary
Oesophageal adenocarcinoma (OAC) is the 6th commonest cause of cancer deaths in the Western World, and is increasing in incidence. In Australia most patients present late and require risky treatments with a low cure rate. There is a big difference in survival between individuals presenting early vs. late. Better methods to detect cancer early or detect pre-cancer will improve outcomes. Our research will develop a blood test for identifying individuals with early OAC to allow earlier treatment.
Endoscopic Removal Of Lesions In The Gastrointestinal Tract
Funder
National Health and Medical Research Council
Funding Amount
$71,855.00
Summary
Barrett's oesophagus and flat colonic polyps are premalignant lesions with potential for progression to oesophageal and colorectal cancer, respectively. These cancers make up a signifiant portion of the burden of cancer disease in Australia. This research aims to improve outcomes of patients with Barrett's oesophagus and flat polyps by establishing the most appropriate treatment approach to Barrett's oesophagus, identifying risk factors that cause disease progression and by novel ways of enhanci ....Barrett's oesophagus and flat colonic polyps are premalignant lesions with potential for progression to oesophageal and colorectal cancer, respectively. These cancers make up a signifiant portion of the burden of cancer disease in Australia. This research aims to improve outcomes of patients with Barrett's oesophagus and flat polyps by establishing the most appropriate treatment approach to Barrett's oesophagus, identifying risk factors that cause disease progression and by novel ways of enhancing the technique of removal of polyps.Read moreRead less