29 Jul Germline Mutation in VSIG10L and Familial Barrett Neoplasia

MedicalResearch.com Interview with:

Dr-Amitabh-Chak

Amitabh Chak, MD
University Hospitals Case Medical Ctr
Cleveland, OH, 44106

MedicalResearch.com: What is the background for this study? What are the main findings?

Response: About 20 years ago we discovered that Barrett’s esophagus and esophageal cancer aggregate in a small proportion of families suggesting there might be a genetic basis to these complex diseases. As we started looking at these families, we identified a rare family with multiple members who had Barrett’s esophagus and multiple members who had passed away from esophageal cancer at a young age. Advances in exome sequencing have now allowed us to identify a mutation in a gene whose function is not known that predisposes this family to develop Barrett’s esophagus. Functional studies suggest that this gene, VSIG10L, is involved in maturation of normal squamous esophagus.

MedicalResearch.com: What should readers take away from your report?

Response: Genetic studies of rare families can provide insights into the pathogenesis of complex diseases such as cancer.

MedicalResearch.com: What recommendations do you have for future research as a result of this study?

Response: We will now focus on studying the function of VSIG10L
and identifying the maturation pathways it affects.

MedicalResearch.com: Is there anything else you would like to add?

Response: It takes a whole team of investigators to make progress.

MedicalResearch.com: Thank you for your contribution to the MedicalResearch.com community.

Citation:

Note: Content is Not intended as medical advice. Please consult your health care provider regarding your specific medical condition and questions.

More Medical Research Interviews on MedicalResearch.com

[wysija_form id=”5″]

Last Updated on July 29, 2016 by Marie Benz MD FAAD