Research in fruit flies provides new insight into Barrett's esophagus

(Buck Institute for Age Research) Research focused on the regulation of the adult stem cells that line the gastrointestinal tract of Drosophila suggests new models for the study of Barrett's esophagus. Barrett's esophagus is a condition in which the cells of the lower esophagus transform into stomach-like cells. In most cases this transformation has been thought to occur directly from chronic acid indigestion. A new study suggests a different cause, namely a change in stem cell function, for this transformation.
Source: EurekAlert! - Cancer - Category: Cancer & Oncology Source Type: news