Project Description

Stem cells anchored in the wall of stomach glands are responsible for continuous renewal of cells producing acid and digestive enzymes. Some evidences suggest that these stem cells may also become involved in the development of precancerous and cancerous lesions in the stomach wall.  To understand the role of stem cells in glandular homeostasis and cancer development, the aim of this project is to develop different models of stem cell cultures and to define some factors controlling their proliferation and differentiation. These studies will help in early detection of precancerous glandular lesions and defining new therapeutic targets for stomach cancer.