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Updated: Jul 11, 2026
06:55
Diagnosis of Neoplasia in Barrett’s Esophagus using Vital-dye Enhanced Fluorescence Imaging
Published on: May 11, 2014
p27 and Barrett's esophagus: a review*
1Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Division of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02215, USA. mjwe@rcn.com
Summary
Barrett
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology and Molecular Oncology
Background:
- Barrett's esophagus and associated adenocarcinoma are increasing in prevalence globally.
- The molecular biology of Barrett's esophagus is widely studied, yet the role of the p27 tumor suppressor gene remains under-explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the existing literature on the function of p27 in Barrett's esophagus.
- To evaluate p27's potential as a clinical biomarker for malignant transformation.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting p27 for chemoprevention.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating p27 in Barrett's esophagus and adenocarcinoma.
- Analysis of p27's known functions in cell cycle regulation and tumor suppression.
- Evaluation of clinical data and experimental findings related to p27 expression levels and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- The tumor suppressor p27 plays a critical role in regulating cell proliferation and differentiation.
- Altered p27 expression is implicated in the progression of Barrett's esophagus to adenocarcinoma.
- p27 status may serve as a prognostic indicator in Barrett's esophagus patients.
Conclusions:
- The tumor suppressor gene p27 is significantly involved in Barrett's esophagus pathogenesis and malignant progression.
- p27 holds promise as a valuable biomarker for predicting cancer risk and patient outcomes.
- Targeting p27 offers a potential therapeutic avenue for chemoprevention strategies in Barrett's esophagus.
Related Concept Videos
01:21Barrett Esophagus-I: Introduction
Barrett's esophagus is a medical condition where the esophageal mucosa is significantly damaged by stomach acid or other digestive fluids, often due to long-term exposure associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In GERD, a weakened or abnormally relaxed lower esophageal sphincter allows stomach acid to flow persistently into the esophagus.
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more similar...
This constant acid exposure transforms the esophagus's pink mucosal lining (stratified squamous epithelium) into a type of lining more similar...
01:21Barrett Esophagus-II: Clinical Manifestations and Management
Individuals with Barrett's esophagus are often asymptomatic, but they may experience symptoms commonly associated with GERD, such as heartburn and acid regurgitation. Additional symptoms can include difficulty swallowing, chest pain, unintentional weight loss, blood in the stool (which may appear black, tarry, or bloody), and episodes of vomiting.
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
To diagnose Barrett's esophagus, healthcare providers often recommend an endoscopy for those showing symptoms of acid reflux. The procedure entails...
01:30Esophageal Strictures-I: Introduction
Esophageal strictures involve abnormal narrowing or tightening of the esophagus. They vary in length and severity, ranging from mild constriction to complete obstruction, and are classified as benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
Etiology
The primary cause of esophageal strictures is long-standing gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), accounting for about 70 to 80% of adult cases. Chronic acid reflux can lead to injury and scarring of the esophageal lining, culminating in...
01:26Esophageal Strictures-II: Clinical Features and Management
Patients with esophageal strictures often experience a range of symptoms. Initially, they may have difficulty swallowing solid foods, which can progress to include liquids. Additional symptoms may involve chest pain or discomfort, regurgitating food and fluids, heartburn, unintentional weight loss, coughing or choking during meals, and hoarseness.
Healthcare providers should gather a comprehensive medical history and conduct a physical examination for diagnosis. If esophageal stricture is...
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01:24Esophageal Varices-I: Introduction
Esophageal varices are dilated, tortuous veins which are found mainly in the submucosa of the lower esophagus but which may also appear higher up or extend into the stomach. They develop due to increased pressure in the portal venous system, often as a result of liver cirrhosis. This condition scars and damages the liver, impeding normal blood flow through the portal vein. To compensate, blood seeks alternative pathways, forming fragile new vessels (varices) in the esophagus and stomach. These...
01:28Esophageal Varices-II: Clinical Features and Management
Esophageal varices often manifest as gastrointestinal bleeding episodes, presenting symptoms like hematemesis (vomiting of blood), hematochezia (passing fresh blood via the rectum), and melena (black, tarry stools). Other signs can include weight loss, anorexia, abdominal discomfort, jaundice, pruritus, altered mental status, and muscle cramps.
In the initial assessment, a thorough review of the patient's medical history is vital to identify risk factors such as liver disease, alcohol abuse, or...
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