|
Gastroenterology and Hepatology Research Programs
Effect of Aging Upon Gastrointestinal Function The division, under the direction of Dr. Peter Holt, has for many years been involved in studies that aim to understand the effects of the aging process upon the structure, proliferation and function of the small and large intestine. These studies involve both rodents and humans and are presently directed specifically to clarify the possible influence of the aging process upon the development of cancers of the digestive tract.
Colon Cancer Prevention-Use of Chemopreventive Agents Studies are ongoing to evaluate the effect of natural food substances including calcium and vitamin D, upon the processes that lead to the development of colon neoplasias, both benign adenomas as well as colon cancer. These studies, supported by research grants from the National Cancer Institution and other agencies, utilize individuals who have had a history of colon adenomas and who therefore are at risk for the development of more neoplasias. Studies evaluate biomarkers present in the colon of subjects who have had colon adenomas or cancer under the direction of Dr Peter Holt. If you are interested potentially in participating in such studies, please call the Colon Polyp Prevention Center at (212) 523-3282.
Gastric Helicobacter pylori Infection, Peptic Ulcers and Cancer This program, under the direction of Dr. Steven Moss, aims to determine the role of the H. pylori bacterium in the development of peptic ulcers, gastritis and gastric cancer. Studies are ongoing using both tissues from individuals who suffer from H. pylori infection as well as controls as well as basic science studies examining the effect of H. pylori on gastric epithelial cells. This research is supported by research grants from Astra-Merck, Glaxo-Wellcome and the Cancer Research Foundation of America. If you are interested in participating in this program, please call Dr. Moss at (212) 523-2409.
AIDS and the Gastrointestinal Tract This program, under the direction of Dr. Donald Kotler, evaluates and treats HIV-infected individuals for gastrointestinal and nutritional complications of the disease. Ongoing studies are dissecting the relationships between cellular HIV infection in the intestine, enteric pathogens, oxidative stress, immune depletion and clinical symptoms. Treatment studies are determining the safety and efficacy of experimental antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory agents in AIDS patients. Nutritional studies include analysis of factors controlling protein supplementation, anabolic agents and exercise upon body composition and skeletal muscle structure and function as well as studies of body fat distribution and metabolic disturbances occurring in patients receiving potent antiretroviral agents. For further information call Dr. Kotler at (212) 523-3674.
This program under the direction of Dr. Samuel Sigal evaluates and treats patients with chronic advanced liver disease and its complications. Dr Sigal is also affiliated with the liver transplant program at Mount Sinai Medical Center and can coordinate all referrals to this program when indicated.
|