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The Digestive Sciences IRG
will review applications on basic and clinical aspects of gastrointestinal, hepatobiliary
and pancreatic physiology and pathobiology, and on the disposition and action
of nutrients and xenobiotics. Specific areas include mucosal immunity
and immune-mediated disorders, microbial pathogenesis, inflammation, and
molecular and cell biology of pre-cancer, differentiation, growth and
development. Applications involving integrative physiology including
brain-gut interactions, hormones, secretion and absorption, motility, and
genetic determinants of GI diseases will be reviewed here, as well as studies
related to the disposition of nutrients, drugs, biopharmaceutical agents,
alcohol and other toxicants, and their mechanisms of action.
Investigators may employ a broad range of basic and clinical research methods
including pharmacologic, chemical and biochemical approaches, genetics,
genomics and proteomics, molecular and cell biology techniques and animal
models. Patient-oriented studies including pediatric gastroenterology
are included in this IRG, but large population studies and randomized clinical trials involving digestive disorders will
be reviewed elsewhere.
The following Study Sections
are included in the DIG IRG:
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Xenobiotic and Nutrient
Disposition and Action [XNDA]
[XNDA
Roster]
The Xenobiotic and
Nutrient Disposition and Action [XNDA] Study Section reviews applications
related to the disposition (absorption, metabolism, distribution, and
excretion) of supraphysiologic (SP) levels of nutrients and non-nutrient
chemicals, including xenobiotics such as pro-drugs and drugs,
biopharmaceutical agents, alcohol, phytochemicals/ botanicals, and other
non-drug chemicals, and the study of their mechanisms of action (both
pharmacological and toxicological) in normal and pathological conditions of
the digestive system.
Studies that address the effects of digestive system-generated metabolites of xenobiotics on organ systems other than the digestive system may be considered in this Study Section. XNDA may also lend its expertise to the review of applications that address the metabolism and disposition of xenobiotic in other organs (e.g., lung, immune system, reproductive system, kidney) when the context of the applications are multi-organ effects.
Specific areas covered by XNDA:
· Gastrointestinal (including splenic/lymphatic)
and/or hepatic disposition of nutrients (e.g., vitamins, minerals, amino
acids, at supra-physiological levels), drugs (ranging from small molecules to
biopharmaceuticals/macromolecules) and non-drug chemicals (including alcohol,
metals, toxins, phytochemicals/botanicals and environmental toxicants),
including processes of absorption. biotransformation, distribution and
excretion.
· In vitro and animal models that study xenobiotic
disposition.
· Biotransformation including the phase I (e.g.,
oxidation), phase II (e.g., conjugation) and phase III (e.g., transport)
processes.
· Membrane processes related to xenobiotic and
nutrient disposition, including passive, vesicular, receptor, and
transporter-mediated processes (e.g., nutrient transporters, efflux
transporters, MDR / MRPs, ion transport/channels).
· Hepatic clearance processes as related to xenobiotics
and SP nutrients, including perfusion, uptake, binding, biotransformation,
and/or biliary excretion.
· The role of bile acids and lipids in xenobiotic
disposition and/or toxicity.
· Interactions among xenobiotics (e.g., drug-drug
interactions, and nutrient-drug interactions, alcohol-drug interactions),
involving disposition and response processes.
· Role of genetics and genomics in disposition and
effects of SP nutrients and xenobiotics (e.g., pharmacogenetics, pharmacogenomics,
toxicogenetics, toxicogenomics).
· In vitro and animal models that investigate the
molecular basis of 'gene-environment' interactions related to the digestive
system, including studies focused on putative environmental susceptibility
genes and/or pharmacogenetics.
· Role of physiological variation in disposition and
action of xenobiotics and SP nutrients.
·
Theoretical,
mechanistic, and/or integrated studies of kinetics and/or dynamics of SP
nutrients and xenobiotics (e.g., pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics,
toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics).
·
Mechanisms of
action of xenobiotics and SP nutrients, including toxicological and/or
pharmacological effects on the digestive system.
·
Xenobiotic and
SP nutrient-mediated alterations in signal transduction, cell cycle
regulation, receptors, genes, apoptosis and/or oncosis
(necrosis).
·
Structure-function relationships for
enzymes/transporters/receptors involved in SP nutrient and/or xenobiotic
disposition and effects.
·
Production,
elimination and biological effects of reactive intermediates, including
reactive oxygen species (e.g., oxidative stress), mediated by SP nutrients
or xenobiotics.
XNDA has the following shared interests within the
DIG IRG:
-
With Gastrointestinal Cell
and Molecular Biology [GCMB]: Applications focusing on understanding
fundamental processes/ pathways of dysplasia, neoplasia, mutagenesis
and/or DNA repair, could be assigned to GCMB. If the focus is on
understanding the disposition and/or mechanisms of action of
xenobiotics, or SP nutrients, the application could be assigned to XNDA.
-
With Gastrointestinal Cell
and Molecular Biology [GCMB]; Hepatobiliary Pathophysiology [HBPP]; and
Gastrointestinal Mucosal Pathobiology [GMPB]: There is shared
interest in the area of oxidative stress with GCMB, HBPP and
GMPB. An application to evaluate the toxicological or
pharmacological implications of xenobiotic-induced oxidative stress
(production/elimination of reactive intermediates, including reactive
oxygen and nitrogen) could be assigned to XNDA. Where the focus is
on oxidative stress related to infection or inflammation, it could be
assigned to GMPB; where the focus is on the molecular and cellular
processes that address endogenously-mediated oxidative stress, it could
be assigned to GCMB. Where the focus is on oxidative stress
related to ischemia-reperfusion injury or other mechanisms of hepatic
cell injury, it could be assigned to HBPP.
-
With Hepatobiliary
Pathophysiology [HBPP]: (1) There is shared interest with HBPP in
the area of biliary excretion. Where the focus is on understanding
the physiological aspects of biliary function, the application could be
assigned to HBPP. Where the focus is on biliary elimination of
xenobiotics or alterations of xenobiotic disposition by the
hepatobiliary system, the application could be assigned to XNDA. (2)
There is shared interest in the area of alcohol metabolism and effects
between HBPP and XNDA. Where the focus of the application is on
the disposition of alcohol or the effects of alcohol on the disposition
of other xenobiotics, the application could be assigned to XNDA.
Where the focus is on the pathophysiology of alcohol-related liver
disease, the application could be assigned to HBPP.
-
With Clinical and
Integrative Gastrointestinal Pathobiology [CIGP]: (1) There is shared
interest with CIGP in the area of gastrointestinal motility.
Applications with a focus on understanding the consequences of altered
GI motility on xenobiotic disposition (absorption) could be assigned to
XNDA. All other studies related to GI motility could be assigned
to CIGP. (2) There is shared interest with CIGP in the area
of 'gene-environment' interactions. Laboratory-based studies examining
pathways involved in 'gene-environment' interactions, including in vitro
and animal models, could be assigned to XNDA. Gene-environment
interaction studies focused on human populations (epidemiologic or
patient based) could be assigned to CIGP. Studies related to
interactions of the microenvironment of the intestine and genes could be
assigned to CIGP. (3) There is shared interest in the area of
alcohol metabolism and effects between CIGP and XNDA. Where the
focus of the application is on the disposition of alcohol, or the
effects of alcohol on the disposition of other xenobiotics, the
application could be assigned to XNDA. Where the focus is on the
pathophysiology of alcohol-related pancreatic or intestinal disorders,
the application could be assigned to CIGP.
XNDA has the following shared interests outside the
DIG IRG:
-
With the Biological
Chemistry and Macromolecular Biophysics [BCMB] IRG: Shared interest
exists for structure-function relationships for
enzymes/transporters/receptors involved in nutrient and/or xenobiotic
disposition. Where interests are focused primarily on
structure-function relationships of enzymes, transporters and/or
receptors for xenobiotics and nutrients in the digestive system, they
could be assigned to the XNDA. Studies designed to address general
principles of enzymes, transporters and/or receptors may be considered
under the auspices of the BCMB IRG. Shared interests also exist in
the study of pro-drugs. Studies focused primarily on the disposition and
action of the pro-drug in the digestive system could be assigned to
XNDA. In general, studies of pro-drug structure and function
that use primarily biophysical techniques (e.g., X-ray diffraction,
electron spin resonance, and single molecular techniques) could be
assigned to the BCMB IRG.
-
With the Bioengineering
Sciences and Technologies [BST] IRG: Shared interests exist for
mathematical modeling. Studies focused on mechanisms and
applications in xenobiotic or nutrient (at supraphysiological levels)
transport, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicodynamics could
be assigned to XNDA. Studies focused on developing mathematical
modeling methods could be assigned to the BST IRG. Applications
focused on GI specific biological mechanisms and therapies could be
assigned to XNDA. Applications focused on developing technologies to
introduce genes and drugs in a general cellular context could be
assigned to the BST IRG.
-
With the Immunology [IMM]
IRG: There
is shared interest with IMM in studies involving xenobiotics used to
diagnose or treat immunological disorders and diseases. Studies on
the mechanisms of action or efficacy of pharmaceutical agents used in
the diagnosis or treatment of immune disorders or diseases may be
appropriate for IMM. Similar studies of the use or action of
immunological adjuvants may also be appropriate for IMM.
Applications where the primary focus is on the disposition (absorption,
metabolism, distribution, and excretion) of xenobiotics, including
pharmaceutical agents may be appropriate for the DIG IRG.
-
With the Infectious
Diseases and Microbiology [IDM] IRG: When the emphasis is on
the evaluation of the therapeutic mechanisms of action of novel
agents that are potentially useful against infectious diseases,
assignment to the IDM IRG may be
appropriate. Applications where the primary focus is on the
disposition (absorption, metabolism, distribution, and excretion) of
xenobiotics, including pharmaceutical agents, or their toxicological
effects on the host, may be appropriate for the DIG IRG.
-
With the Oncological
Sciences [ONC] IRG: Shared interests exist in the area of drug/
biopharmaceutical development for cancer treatment including
chemotherapy. When the emphasis is on the development and testing
of cancer therapeutics, ONC IRG is appropriate. However, XNDA should be
considered for applications related to GI toxicity of cancer
therapeutics.
-
With the Cardiovascular
Sciences [CVS] IRG: Studies that examine arrhythmias due to
administration of therapeutic agents may be assigned to the CVS
IRG. Applications that focus on the general disposition of
pro-drugs and drugs or biopharmaceutical agents may be assigned to XNDA.
-
With the Endocrinology,
Metabolism, Nutrition and Reproductive Sciences [EMNR]
IRG:
Shared interests exist in areas of xenobiotic and/or nutrient
metabolism, and toxicology. Studies could be assigned to XNDA when
the kinetics and mechanism pertain to xenobiotics and nutrients utilized
at therapeutic and/or toxicological doses. On the other hand,
applications dealing with metabolic aspects of nutrients or food
components, once absorbed and available to non-digestive system tissues
and cells, could be assigned to the EMNR IRG. Basic or clinical
studies that place a major emphasis on nutrients, xenobiotics, and
endocrine disruptors and their action with endocrine systems may be
assigned to the EMNR IRG. However, when interactions with the
endocrine system are not the primary focus, assignment should be made to
XNDA.
-
With the Respiratory
Sciences [RES] IRG: Shared interests exist in areas such as the
disposition and action of drugs and other foreign materials when taken
into the body. Studies could be directed to XNDA when they address
the effects of digestive system-generated metabolites of xenobiotics or
the absorption and excretion of xenobiotics by the digestive system or
where multiple organ systems are involved or where the hepatic and /or
gastrointestinal activities dominate. Applications that address
the metabolism and disposition of xenobiotics in the lung may be
assigned to the RES IRG. Environmental and occupational lung
diseases (including interstitial lung diseases and asthma induced by
environmental agents) and inhalation and respiratory toxicology,
including the effects of particles and gasses, including drugs, on lung
cells, may also be assigned to the RES IRG.
-
With the Renal and
Urological Sciences [RUS] IRG: Shared interests exist in areas such as
renal transport mechanisms and drug therapy. Studies could be
assigned to XNDA when the kinetics, dynamics and mechanisms address
disposition and effects of drugs where multiple organ systems are
involved, or where the hepatic and/or gastrointestinal activities
dominate. Pharmacology relating to kidney function and toxic injury to
the kidney, including xenobiotic-mediated alterations in renal signal
transduction, cell-cycle regulation, receptors, genes, and apoptosis; as
well as mechanisms of renal apoptosis and necrosis, senescence,
genotoxic responses, DNA damage, oxidative stress, and cellular aging
could be assigned to the RUS IRG.
-
With the Surgical Sciences,
Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering [SBIB] IRG: Studies of the
pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, including toxicology, of
general or local anesthetic agents may be assigned
to SBIB. Studies of bioengineering approaches to facilitate
drug delivery and studies of the use of biomaterials to
modify drug delivery should be considered for assignment
to SBIB. General studies of the disposition of xenobiotics,
biopharmaceutical agents, phytochemicals/ botanicals, and other non-drug
chemicals, and the study of their mechanisms of action, particularly
when they relate to normal and pathological conditions of the
digestive system, may be assigned to XNDA.
-
With the Integrative,
Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: Shared interests exist in
areas where the pharmacological and/or toxicological effects of
xenobiotics, including alcohol, on the nervous system are studied.
Where studies relate primarily to the disposition of such xenobiotics,
or toxicity to the digestive system, they could be assigned to
XNDA. Where studies of xenobiotics relate primarily to effects on
the nervous system, they could be assigned to the IFCN IRG.
[Back to Top]
Gastrointestinal Cell and Molecular Biology [GCMB]
[GCMB
Roster]
The Gastrointestinal Cell and
Molecular Biology [GCMB] Study Section reviews applications concerning
cell and molecular biology of gastrointestinal and liver function.
Studies using cellular, molecular, genetic, structural, biochemical,
electrophysiological and pharmacological approaches to define mechanisms
and pathways of GI and liver growth, differentiation, development,
physiology and pathophysiology in humans or model organisms generally at
the level of the gene, protein or cell are considered.
Specific areas covered by GCMB:
-
Regulation of gene expression including
transcriptional and posttranscriptional mechanisms: transcription
factors, promoter analyses, DNA-protein interaction, protein-protein
interaction, chromatin structure and remodeling, epigenetic phenomenon,
nuclear transport including import and export, mRNA processing including
splicing and editing, covalent posttranscriptional control of gene
expression including splicing, polyadenylation, mRNA stability, mRNA
editing and translational control, genomics and proteomics.
-
Mechanisms controlling growth, differentiation and
development: origin, commitment, specification and differentiation of
all cell types in the digestive system; cell-cell cell-tissue and
tissue-tissue interactions that regulate organ development; inductive
mechanism of tissue and organ development; lineage determination;
pattern formation; cell cycle and cell division including cyclins,
cyclin-dependent kinases and cyclin inhibitors; checkpoints; growth
factors, mitogens, morphogens and cytokines.
-
Signal transduction: receptor-ligand interactions;
receptor-mediated gene regulation and signal pathways; intracellular
signaling pathways in response to endogenous and exogenous stimuli;
paracrine and autocrine signaling; second messengers; adaptor proteins;
kinases; phosphatases; signaling involving cell cycle regulation and
apoptosis; regulation by reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide.
-
Intracellular trafficking: endocytosis; receptor
and ligand internalization and recycling; intracellular
compartmentalization; protein sorting; vesicular fusion, trafficking and
docking; ER translocation; molecular chaperones; proteosomes.
-
Gene and somatic cell therapy: viral-, liposome-
and DNA-mediated gene transfer and delivery, somatic cell
transplantation, tissue engineering, antisense RNA, RNA interference,
transgenic mouse.
-
Stem cell biology as relates to the digestive
system including differentiation of embryonic and adult stem cells into
the gastrointestinal epithelium and smooth muscle cells, hepatocytes and
cholangiocytes.
-
Mechanisms of apoptosis, cell cycle arrest and
senescence: telomere biology, genotoxic responses, DNA damage, death
receptors and ligands, oxidative stress, cellular aging.
-
Molecular physiology of ion channels, pumps and
transporters of water, electrolytes, and organic solutes: vectorial
secretion and absorption, membrane potential, water channel, cell volume
control, structural-functional analysis, protein-protein
interaction.
-
Molecular mechanisms of GI and liver secretion or
absorption: vesicle formation, membrane trafficking, polarity
determination, tight junction regulation, and scaffolding.
-
GI and liver dysplasia and pre-neoplasia:
mechanisms of transformation, immortalization and mutagenesis, DNA
damage and repair, epigenetics, angiogenesis in relation to
regeneration, imprinting, genomic and chromosomal instability, molecular
screening, detection and diagnosis, mechanisms of hereditary syndromes.
-
Genetic basis of GI diseases: structure-function
analysis of identified disease-causing genes, genotype-phenotype
correlation, and transgenic mouse model of hereditary human
diseases.
-
Epithelial repair, regeneration and adaptation:
molecular mechanisms of liver regeneration in response to hepatectomy
and injuries, gut adaptation in response to resection, nutritional
depletion and other injuries; intestinal epithelial restitution and
wound healing following injuries.
-
Extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell-cell
interaction: cell adhesion, migration, cell-cell communication, gap
junction, endoderm-mesoderm interaction during development.
-
Epithelial cell biology and barrier function: basal
lamina formation, cytoskeleton, motor and motility, cell polarity
determination, tight junction formation and regulation, cell-cell
communication, permeability. Mechanics, biomechanics and cellular
basis including the contractile proteins and crossbridge cycling in GI
smooth muscle.
GCMB has the following shared interests within the
DIG IRG:
-
With Gastrointestinal
Mucosal Pathobiology [GMPB]: Shared interests exist between GMPB and GCMB
with regards to GI pre-neoplasia and genetic basis of GI diseases.
Whereas studies of pre-neoplasia, genetic causes and changes in
epithelial cell biology and barrier functions due to inflammatory bowel
disease or other inflammatory or infectious conditions of the lower
digestive tract could be assigned to GMPB, those involving
characterization of disease-causing genes other than inflammatory bowel
disease could be assigned to GCMB.
-
With Hepatobiliary
Pathophysiology [HBPP]: Shared interests exist between HBPP and GCMB
in the areas of stem cell biology, cell transplantation and liver
regeneration. Where studies that concern these areas at the organ
level (i.e. liver) are assigned to HBPP, those that address these
processes at a molecular level should be assigned to GCMB. In
addition, studies that examine signal transduction, intracellular
trafficking, cell matrix, cell-cell interaction, ion channels and
transporters in the liver could be assigned to HBPP.
-
With Clinical and
Integrative Gastrointestinal Pathobiology [CIGP]: In general, whereas
studies concerning the use of molecular and cell biological techniques
to address digestive functions except the pancreas should be assigned to
GCMB, those involving an integrated approach should be addressed by
CIGP. In genetic basis of diseases, CIGP will be assigned
studies involving identification of disease-causing genes including
those involved in complex traits. GCMB will be assigned applications on
the functional characterization of previously identified disease-causing
genes from a cellular and molecular biologic perspective. In GI
pre-neoplasia of the upper digestive tract, studies involving etiology,
diagnosis and prevention of conditions, including the identification of
the genetic changes involved, that are a direct result of acid-related
injuries (Barrett’s esophagus) and H. pylori infection (intestinal
metaplasia) may be assigned to CIGP, where studies that address the
functions of genes and the consequences of mutation in these genes in
all GI pre-neoplastic tissues will be referred to GCMB.
GCMB has the following shared interests outside the
DIG IRG:
-
With the Genes, Genomes
& Genetics [GGG] IRG: The GCMB Study Section may be assigned
applications as they relate to GI- or liver- specific gene transcription
and gene expression, as well as functional determination of previously
identified genes that cause diseases of the GI tract and liver.
Studies of general mechanisms of gene regulation, quantitative genetics,
genetic epidemiology and genetic analysis of complex traits, and
genetically engineered animals with an emphasis on genetics rather than
digestive system diseases may be assigned to the GGG IRG.
-
With the Biology of
Development and Aging [BDA] IRG: In general, applications related to
investigation of growth, differentiation, development, and stem cell
biology of the gastrointestinal tract and liver at the molecular and
cellular level would be assigned to GCMB. Similarly, applications that
focus on early developmental mechanisms involved in formation of organ
primordia (such as cell cycle control, apoptosis, cell fate, or early
pattern formation) would be assigned to the BDA IRG. When the
question being addressed is germane to the development of more than a
single organ system, either because it addresses the "primordial organ"
or because of the generality of the process being studied, the
application generally would be assigned to the BDA IRG. The
overall philosophy is that assignment should be made based on the
central focus of the application.
-
With the Bioengineering
Sciences and Technologies [BST] IRG: Grant applications
focused on GI specific biological mechanisms and therapies could be
assigned to GCMB. On the other hand, grant applications focused on
developing technologies to introduce genes and drugs in a general
cellular context could be assigned to the BST IRG
-
With the Oncological
Sciences [ONC] IRG: In general, studies of the biology,
genetics, interactions of cells with their microenvironment, or
biomarkers for early detection of GI dysplasia, pre-neoplastic
conditions and pre-neoplastic conditions of the liver would be assigned
to GCMB. Those that involve GI and liver cancers (invasive and
metastatic cancers) and all other cancers including chemo- and radiation
therapy would be assigned to the ONC IRG. Studies of familial
adenomatous polyosis (FAP) as well as the pathology and treatment of
polyps in the GI system would be assigned to GCMB. In general,
cell biological studies of GI or liver cancers would also be assigned to
the ONC IRG. Molecular and genetic studies of Barrett's Esophagus would
be assigned to GCMB.
-
With the Endocrinology,
Metabolism, Nutrition, and Reproductive Sciences [EMNR]
IRG:
Shared interests exist with EMNR IRG regarding hormone physiology and
biochemistry, and nutrient metabolism. In general, studies
involving hormones and hormone receptors that originate from the
gastrointestinal tract, and digestion and absorption of nutrients by the
digestive system would be assigned to GCMB, whereas signal transduction
studies involving hormones of endocrine system origin would be assigned
to the EMNR IRG.
[Back to Top]
Gastrointestinal Mucosal Pathobiology
[GMPB]
[GMPB
Roster]
The Gastrointestinal Mucosal
Pathobiology [GMPB] Study Section reviews applications involving
gastrointestinal immunology, host-microbial interactions, intestinal
infections and inflammation including chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
The intestinal epithelium is the interface between the intestinal immune
system and the microbiota; thus epithelial cell biology as it relates to
mucosal defense or repair is also included.
Specific areas covered by GMPB:
-
Gastrointestinal mucosal immunology including but
not limited to studies on gut associated lymphoid tissue (GALT),
intraepithelial lymphocytes (IEL), lamina propria lymphocytes (LPL), and
draining mesenteric lymph nodes.
-
Gastrointestinal responses to bacterial and dietary
antigens including active immunity or tolerance, and the role of mucosal
adjuvants in triggering either pathway.
-
Mechanisms of innate immunity in host defense in
the gastrointestinal system, including cryptins, defensins, lysozyme,
mucins, and natural IgA decoy receptors.
-
Mucosal immune and inflammatory responses to H.
pylori infection.
-
Mucosal receptors for pathogens (including toxin)
and for molecular pattern recognition (toll-receptors, and like
receptors, NOD2).
-
Mechanisms of acute and chronic intestinal
inflammation in experimental models including studies on genetic
susceptibility as they relate to pathogenesis.
-
Basic and clinical studies in human inflammatory
bowel disease, gluten sensitive enteropathy, auto-immune gastritis, and
other types of immune-mediated gastrointestinal diseases.
-
Identification of microbes/microbial products that
drive chronic intestinal inflammation.
-
Mechanisms of tissue injury and repair in
intestinal inflammation.
-
Interactions between the microbiota and intestinal
mucosa including the effects of probiotics.
-
Gastrointestinal cell biology and barrier function
including cytokine and chemokine production in response to pathogens,
toxins or chemical injury.
-
Intestinal responses to enteric pathogens including
enterocyte and immune responses.
-
Host cell responses (including inflammatory
mechanisms) to invasion by microbial pathogens in the gastrointestinal
system.
-
Gastrointestinal responses to food-borne
infections, including toxin-mediated and invasive pathogens, and agents
likely to be employed in bioterrorism
-
Oxidant-induced injury including
ischemia-reperfusion injury, neutrophil activation and endothelial cell
responses
-
Studies of GI tract related to dysplasia and pre-neoplasia as a consequence of chronic GI
infection or inflammation, including familial adenomatous polyposis
(FAP), and mechanisms of hereditary syndromes.
-
NSAID-induced gastrointestinal injury and
inflammation.
-
Effects of alcohol or other toxicants on the
gastrointestinal immune system.
GMPB has the following shared interests within the
DIG IRG:
There are shared interests in signal transduction,
oxidative stress epithelial biology and barrier, and genetic basis of
disease with other study sections in the IRG. Assignments to GMPB will be
based on a central focus on immunity, infection or inflammation of the
gastrointestinal tract.
-
With Gastrointestinal Cell
and Molecular Biology [GCMB]: Applications with a focus on transcription
factors such as NF-kappaB in animal models or humans with inflammation
or infection could be assigned to GMPB, while studies of transcription
factors and gene regulation without such a focus will be assigned to
GCMB. Studies on dysplasia and pre-neoplasia as a consequence of
chronic gastrointestinal infection or inflammation will be assigned to
GMPB. All other studies in this area will be assigned to GCMB. Molecular
and genetic studies of Barrett's esophagus would be assigned to
GCMB.
GMPB has the following shared interests outside the
DIG IRG:
-
With the Risk, Prevention
and Health Behavior [RPHB] IRG: Applications that focus on physiologic or biologic
processes of gastrointestinal disorders could be referred to GMPB;
applications with the primary focus on psychological, behavioral or
social-risk factors as well as clinical trials of behavioral medicine
and lifestyle-based gastrointestinal prevention strategies and therapies
could be referred to RPHB.
-
With the Immunology [IMM]
IRG: There
are several shared interests between GMPB and the IMM IRG in the area of
mucosal immunology and inflammation. Typically, studies of general
mucosal immunology, where the focus is on the immune system, would be
assigned to the Immunology IRG. Similarly, studies on
inflammatory bowel disease, gluten sensitive enteropathy, and other
types of immune-mediated gastrointestinal diseases, where the focus is
on the gastrointestinal system or liver, would be assigned to
GMPB.
-
With the Infectious
Diseases and Microbiology [IDM] IRG: Assignment to GMPB
may be appropriate for applications where the focus is on the
mucosal-based inflammatory responses to pathogenic microbes and their
products. Assignment to the IDM IRG may be appropriate for studies where
the focus is the pathogen, or antibiotic therapy.
-
With the Oncological
Sciences [ONC] IRG: In general, studies of GI dysplasia, and
pre-neoplastic conditions of the GI system or liver would be assigned to
GCMB. Studies of familial adenomatous polyosis (FAP) as well as
the pathology and treatment of polyps in the GI system would be assigned
to GMPB. Studies that focus on GI or liver cancers would be
assigned to the ONC IRG.
[Back to Top]
Hepatobiliary Pathophysiology
[HBPP]
[HBPP
Roster]
This study section reviews
applications involving alcohol metabolism and disease; cholesterol and
bile salt metabolism; fibrosis and cirrhosis; liver immunology and
inflammation; hepatobiliary transporters and ion channels; mechanisms of
cell death and inflammation; cell biology of liver cells; mechanisms of
repair and regeneration; pathophysiology and treatment of inherited and
acquired hepatobiliary diseases; viral hepatitis and liver
transplantation.
Specific areas covered by HBPP:
-
Pathogenesis of alcoholic liver injury, including
the role of nutrient deficiencies and endotoxemia.
-
Mechanisms of hepatic cholesterol and lipid
metabolism related to bile formation.
-
Bile salt synthesis, metabolism and
transport.
-
Mechanisms of bile formation and
cholestasis.
-
Effects of bile salts on lipid absorption/assembly
and regulation of lipoprotein genes
-
Physiologic mechanisms of hepatobiliary transport,
including mechanisms of uptake and excretion of organic solutes, heavy
metals, and ions.
-
The use of isolated parenchymal and non-parenchymal
cells of the liver including hepatocytes, stellate cells, Kupffer cells,
endothelial cells, cholangiocytes and resident lymphocytes particularly
as they relate to the pathogenesis of liver disease.
-
Pathogenesis and treatment of autoimmune,
cholestatic, metabolic, viral mediated and non-alcoholic fatty liver
diseases (NAFLD) and cholangiopathies.
-
Pathogenesis of gallstones and gallbladder
disease.
-
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of fibrosis and
cirrhosis including complications such as ascites and hepatic
encephalopathy.
-
Mechanism of hepatocyte injury including immune
response, oxidative stress, apoptosis, pro- and anti-inflammatory
mediators, including signal transduction pathways and
neuromediators.
-
Inflammatory response of the liver to injury or
infection (acute phase response).
-
Studies of gene regulation as they pertain to the
pathogenesis of liver diseases.
-
Studies of liver organ repair and
regeneration.
-
Regulation of splanchnic blood flow as it pertains
to mechanisms of portal hypertension.
-
Liver cell and organ transplantation, liver
ischemia-reperfusion injury, and application of transplantation to the
therapy of liver diseases.
-
Gene and progenitor cell therapy of genetic and
acquired hepatobiliary diseases.
-
Viral hepatitis as it relates to the pathogenesis
of hepatobiliary disease.
HBPP has the following shared interests within the
DIG IRG:
-
With Xenobiotic and
Nutrient Disposition and Action [XNDA]: There is a shared
interest with XNDA in alcohol metabolism and toxicity, hepatobiliary
transporters, and cholesterol and lipid transport. Applications
that focus on these processes in the physiology and pathophysiology of
liver diseases could be assigned to HBPP. Studies focused on
xenobiotics and nutrients should be referred to XNDA.
-
With Gastrointestinal Cell
and Molecular Biology [GCMB]: There is shared interest with GCMB in
mechanisms of signal transduction, intracellular trafficking, cell-cell
and cell-matrix interactions, gene regulation, gene and somatic cell
therapy and progenitor cells, mechanisms of cell death and molecular
physiology of ion channels and transporters, liver repair and
regeneration. Applications that focus on these processes as they relate
to liver diseases could be assigned to HBPP.
HBPP has the following shared interests outside the
DIG IRG:
-
With the Genes, Genomes
& Genetics [GGG] IRG: Applications that focus on gene transcription
studies of the pathophysiology of liver disease could be assigned to the
HBPP. When the focus is a general understanding of gene transcription,
assignment could be to the GGG IRG.
-
With the Cell Biology [CB]
IRG: Shared interest with membrane transport,
apoptosis, intracellular trafficking and cytoskeleton, signal
transduction, cell-junction and cell-cell matrix interaction. When
the focus is on a general cellular and molecular understanding,
assignment could be to the CB IRG. Applications dealing with
hepatobiliary cells as related to pathobiology of liver disease could be
assigned to the HBPP study section.
-
With the Bioengineering
Sciences and Technologies [BST] IRG: Applications
focused on liver specific biological mechanisms and therapies could be
assigned to HBPP. On the other hand, grant applications focused on
developing technologies to introduce genes and drugs in a general
cellular context could be assigned to the BST IRG.
-
With the Immunology [IMM]
IRG: Applications focusing on inflammation, innate
immunology, and autoimmune diseases of liver might be assigned to
HBPP. Liver transplant applications, where the focus is on
transplant immunology, could be assigned to the IMM IRG, whereas those
related to pathobiology of organ function could be assigned to
HBPP. Applications on basic, pre-clinical, and clinical
investigations involving the etiology, initiation,
immunopathophysiology, prevention and treatment of diseases in which the
immune system plays a major role, maybe assigned to the IMM IRG.
-
With the Hematology [HEME]
IRG: There is shared interest in iron metabolism
and stem cell biology. Applications dealing primarily with liver
complications of iron overload and hepatic progenitor cells could be
assigned to HBPP while those dealing with iron and heme metabolism as
related to blood disorders, iron overload states and strategies for
therapeutic intervention and sideroblastic anemias, acquired and
inherited, could be assigned to the HEME
IRG.
-
With the Cardiovascular
Sciences [CVS] IRG: Shared interest with
cholesterol and lipid metabolism, cytokines and nitric oxide.
Proposals dealing with lipid metabolism in the arterial wall or
arterosclerosis could be assigned to the CVS IRG.
Applications on the biochemistry of elevated plasma lipids and
lipoproteins in the intestine and liver may also be assigned to the CVS
IRG when the focus is on atherosclerosis and inflammation in the
cardiovascular system. Applications dealing with cholesterol and
lipid metabolism as it relates to bile salt metabolism and excretion,
and the role of cytokines and nitric oxide in the pathogenesis of liver
diseases could be assigned to HBPP.
-
With the Endocrinology,
Metabolism, Nutrition, and Reproductive Sciences [EMNR]
IRG:
Shared interest with cholesterol
metabolism and complications of diabetes. Applications dealing
primarily with lipid metabolism in the liver as it relates to NAFLD
could be assigned to the HBPP study section. On the other hand
applications focusing on lipoproteins, lipid metabolism and diabetic
complications
could be assigned to the EMNR IRG.
-
With the Surgical Sciences,
Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering [SBIB] IRG: Applications on liver
ischemia-reperfusion injury could be assigned to either the SBIB IRG or
HBPP, with HBPP focused more on the evaluation of liver function
following surgical procedures and SBIB on surgical aspects of trauma and
critical care.
[Back to Top]
Clinical and Integrative Gastrointestinal
Pathobiology [CIGP]
The Clinical and Integrative Gastrointestinal
Pathobiology [CIGP] Study Section will consider research applications
concerned with basic and clinically oriented research related to GI
motility, brain-gut interactions, the enteric nervous system, motor
disorders, acid secretion and acid related disease, GI hormones,
pancreatic function and dysfunction, digestive system nutrient absorption
and disposition, digestive system malabsorption/malnutrition, nutritional
support, integrative GI physiology, genetic determinants of digestive
diseases, and digestive system patient-oriented research related to
the GI system, pancreas and liver. Clinical research involving
interventional and diagnostic endoscopy and surgery are also included
here.
Specific areas covered by CIGP:
-
GI motility: Integrative gut motility,
secretion and absorption at whole animal, organ, cellular and molecular
genetic levels. Muscular and neural mechanisms of and control of
contraction and relaxation of gastrointestinal sphincters and
non-sphincteric smooth muscle including functions of receptors, ligands,
ion channels, hormones, neurotransmitters, intracellular signal
transduction pathways, reflex control of GI motility, genetic control
mechanisms of GI motility.
-
Brain-gut
interaction: This broad area includes extrinsic and intrinsic
neural control of GI sensory/motor and secretory function, endocrine,
circulation and gut immune systems, including intraluminal immunogens
and microorganisms. The area also includes dynamics and reciprocal
influence of brain-gut and gut-brain interaction including those of
cerebrocortical, brainstem and brain sensory motor nuclei.
-
Enteric nervous
system:
Gastrointestinal sensory pathways and functions in health and
disease. These include mechanisms, electrophysiology signal
transduction of visceral nociceptors and nociceptive pathways
originating in the viscera to the various levels of the CNS and to the
cerebral cortex. It also includes studies of the mechanisms of visceral
hypersensitivity, allodynia, and chronic visceral pain.
-
Motor
disorders: Pathophysiology of
motor abnormalities in animal models or humans including the disorder
that are congenital, developmental, or related to aging, inflammation,
and use of a toxin. Physiology and pathophysiology of motor disorders of
pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small and large bowel and the anorectum
including swallowing disorders, gastroparesis, intestinal
pseudoobstruction, paralytic ileus, constipation and fecal
incontinence.
-
Acid secretion and acid
related disease: Gastroesophageal reflux disease and
gastrointestinal damage due to gastrointestinal secretions associated
with reflux or misdirection of gastrointestinal secretions. Studies of
supra-esophageal complications of GERD and of esophageal intestinal
metaplasia and adenocarcinoma (Barrett’s esophagus) are included.
Functional consequences of Helicobacter pylori in the gastrointestinal
system. Physiology, pathophysiology of treatment of peptic ulcer,
gastritis and premalignant lesions of the gastric mucosa.
-
GI hormones: GI hormones,
transmitters, and integrated function on target tissues. Brain-gut
axis, endocrine cells of the GI tract, peptide transmitters and their
actions.
-
Pancreatic function and
dysfunction: Functional studies of the pancreas including
neurohumoral regulation, pancreatic secretion, exocrine-endocrine
relationships, and organ growth and development. Exocrine
pancreatic diseases and dysfunction including both acute and chronic
pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis and ischemia/reperfusion injury.
Studies of gene and progenitor cell therapy for genetic and acquired
pancreatic diseases and those dealing with pancreatic
transplantation.
-
Digestive system nutrient
absorption and disposition: Includes studies on the digestion,
absorption, and gastrointestinal metabolism and disposition of nutrients
when given at physiologic levels either as food or as supplements.
Nutrients include macronutrients (fat, carbohydrate, protein) and
micronutrients (vitamins, minerals), phytochemicals and non-digestible
dietary components. The development of animal and artificial
models for studying the absorption and digestion of unique dietary
components (e.g. phytochemicals) are included.
-
Digestive system
malabsorption/malnutrition: Human and animal studies on malabsorption of
macronutrients (fat, protein, and carbohydrate) and micronutrients
(vitamins, mineral, other food components) by the digestive
system. The effects of primary or resultant malnutrition on GI
organ function such as digestion and non-drug absorptive processes,
liver function, pancreatic function, gallbladder function and gut
immunity are included.
-
Nutritional
support: The metabolic and nonmetabolic
complications on the digestive system of enteral and parenteral
nutrition delivery across the lifespan. Gut adaptation and outcome
research are included. Novel nutritional ingredients and their
effects on GI organ function are included.
-
Integrative GI
physiology: Human and animal studies ranging from
normal physiology to mechanisms and consequences of disease are
appropriate for review. Investigation may include salivary,
oropharyngeal, esophageal, gastric, intestinal physiology, pathobiology
and pharmacology including the neural and mesenteric circulatory systems
as they relate to the gastrointestinal tract. Studies of fluid and
electrolyte transport, intraluminal digestion, diarrhea and constipation
are included. Disease modifiers can include genetic predisposition, diet
and environmental conditions.
-
Genetic determinants of
digestive diseases: Germ line DNA sequence variants associated
with increased risk of disorders of the digestive tract including
syndromes, familial disorders, inherited metabolic disorders of the
liver, gene-gene interactions, genetic risk assessment, gene-environment
interactions including smoking, alcohol, diet, chronic inflammation and
other environmental exposures. Gene knock-out and transgenic
animals related to these diseases
-
Patient oriented
research:
Studies of risk factors, etiology, detection, screening, modifying
factors and therapy of selected digestive system diseases and disorders
including functional gastrointestinal, pancreas and liver
disorders. Functional consequences of behavioral disorders
including non-cardiac chest pain and irritable bowel syndrome are
included. This includes pediatrics.
-
Surgery: Clinical,
population or integrative, whole animal studies of the responses of the
digestive system to trauma or surgery and digestive system
ischemia/reperfusion injury.
CIGP has the following shared interests within the
DIG IRG:
-
With Xenobiotic and
Nutrient Disposition and Action [XNDA]: The XNDA study
section will deal with nutrients, phytochemicals and botanicals when
presented at supra-physiologic and pharmacologic doses (used as drugs)
and CIGP study section will deal with nutrients as presented in the diet
or supplements at physiologic levels. XNDA will deal with
toxicologic or pharmacologic effects and disposition of nutrients and
CIGP will deal with physiologic effects of nutrients. There is a
shared interest with XNDA in alcohol metabolism and toxicity.
Applications that focus on these processes in the physiology and
pathophysiology of pancreatic diseases could be assigned to CIGP.
Studies focused on xenobiotics and nutrients should be referred to
XNDA.
-
With Gastrointestinal Cell
and Molecular Biology [GCMB]: In general, whereas studies involving an
integrated approach should be addressed by CIGP, those concerning the
use of molecular and cell biological techniques to address digestive
functions, except the pancreas, should be assigned to GCMB. Signal
transduction and cell-cell interactions as they relate to
gastrointestinal physiology, neurotransmission, and motility are
appropriate for assignment to the CIGP study section. Molecular
and genetic studies in all GI neoplasias and dysplasias including
Barrett’s esophagus, intestinal metaplasia and colonic pre-neoplasia
should be considered by GCMB. Integrative and clinical studies of
Barrett’s esophagus and pre-neoplastic conditions of the stomach and
esophagus will be considered by CIGP. Studies of diagnosis, early
detection, endoscopy, and prevention could be assigned to CIGP. In
pancreatic studies, those that utilize molecular and cellular approaches
to understand pancreatic physiology, as well as those focused on the
basic processes of pancreatic physiology that are relevant to other
digestive organs should be assigned to CIGP.
-
With Gastrointestinal
Mucosal Pathobiology [GMPB]: H. pylori immunology, inflammation and host
response, host-microbial interaction, and animal models examining immune
response, would be appropriate for assignment to GMPB. H. pylori
related to ulcer pathogenesis, gastric pathobiology, treatment,
prevention, relapse will be dealt with CIGP. GMPB will deal
with mouse genetics and animal models as they relate to immunology of
inflammatory bowel disease. Human statistical approaches, human
genetics, and studies of gene-environment or gene-therapy interactions
are appropriate for assignment to CIGP. Studies on pancreatitis
will be assigned to CIGP.
-
With Hepatobiliary
Pathophysiology [HBPP]: Studies of the regulation of splanchnic
blood flow related to portal hypertension and its consequences would be
assigned to HBPP whereas studies of the circulatory system related to
the remainder of the GI tract will be assigned to CIGP. There is
also shared interest with CIGP with inherited metabolic disorders of the
liver and patient oriented research. Studies that are focused on
the pathogenesis of the inherited metabolic disorders of the liver and
treatment of liver diseases could be assigned to HBPP. In general,
patient oriented research on the liver would be assigned to CIGP.
CIGP has shared the following interests outside the
DIG IRG:
-
With the Genes, Genomes
& Genetics [GGG] IRG: In general, studies of genetics, genomics
and related aspects of population dynamics would be assigned to CIGP
when the gastrointestinal system is the primary focus of the research.
Similarly, gene mapping, gene discovery, statistical analysis of simple
and complex traits, and genetic epidemiology would be appropriate for
the GGG IRG.
-
With the Biology of
Development and Aging [BDA] IRG: Studies of early developmental biology may
be assigned to the BDA IRG. When the focus is the development of
motility in lineages already committed to formation of smooth muscle GI
elements, assignment may be to CIGP. When GI motor disorders are a
secondary aspect or a part of a multi-system study of the aging process,
assignment could be appropriate for BDA IRG; when GI motor disorders are
the primary study focus, whether they are the result of developmental
abnormalities, congenital disorders or aging, the assignment could be to
CIGP.
-
With the Bioengineering
Sciences and Technologies [BST] IRG: Applications focused
on gastrointestinal or pancreatic dysfunction and therapies may be
assigned to CIGP. Applications focused on developing technologies
to introduce genes and drugs in a general cellular context may be
assigned to the BST IRG.
-
With the Health of the
Population [HOP] IRG: Applications in which the primary outcomes
are population studies related to demographics or epidemiology may
generally be assigned to the HOP IRG. Applications on the
diseases, disorders, or functional consequences of behaviors could be
assigned to CIGP.
-
With the Oncological
Sciences [ONC] IRG: Shared interests exist in the area of
esophageal/intestinal metaplasia and adenocarcinoma. In general, cell
biological studies of GI cancers would be assigned to the ONC IRG.
However, studies involving etiology, diagnosis and prevention of
conditions directly resulting from acid-related injuries (Barrett
esophagus) and H. pylori infection (intestinal metaplasia) should be
assigned to CIGP.
-
With the Endocrinology,
Metabolism, Nutrition, and Reproductive Sciences [EMNR]
IRG: (1)
Assignment could be made to CIGP when the focus of the application is on
the digestion, absorption and GI, liver or pancreas metabolism of
nutrient and non-nutrient components of the diet or supplements when
presented at physiologic levels. Molecular aspects of nutrient
transport and excretion, and disposition of nutrients once absorbed and
their subsequent metabolism by organs or tissues
other than
those of the digestive system, could be assigned to the EMNR IRG.
Studies of nutritional support in digestive/gastrointestinal diseases
and disorders would in general be assigned to CIGP. Studies of the
treatment of metabolic or hormonal disorders and diseases other than
those of the digestive system, including the use of nutritional support,
would in general be referred to the EMNR IRG. Studies of placental
nutrient transport and the consequences for fetal growth may be assigned
to the EMNR IRG. Dietary and physiological influences on the
handling of nutrients by the gastrointestinal tract may be assigned to
CIGP. (2) When the primary focus is on hormones of the
gastrointestinal tract and peptides and neurotransmitters of the
brain-gut axis, applications should be assigned to CIGP.
Applications that focus on GI hormones that interact with pituitary,
placental, or pancreatic hormones at the endocrine gland level, or on
gut-mediated effects on feeding, satiety, energy expenditure and islet
hormone secretion could be assigned to the EMNR IRG.
-
With the Renal and
Urological Sciences [RUS] IRG: CIGP may be assigned applications on the
disposition of nutrient and non-nutrient components of the diet or
supplements when presented at physiologic levels and when the
disposition is primarily hepatic or gastrointestinal. Applications
on the pathogenesis of proteinuria and clinical studies of the metabolic
and nutritional consequences of the nephrotic syndrome could be assigned
to the RUS IRG.
-
With the Surgical Sciences,
Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering [SBIB] IRG: (1) Surgical
interventions to treat digestive system dysfunctions may be assigned to
the SBIB IRG. Patient oriented or whole animal research on the
responses of the digestive system to trauma, surgery, or other
physiologic stress may be assigned to CIGP. (2) Patient-oriented or
whole animal studies of ischemia/reperfusion injury to the digestive
system associated with surgery can be appropriately assigned either in
the SBIB IRG or in CIGP, with CIGP focused more on functional
consequences of surgical procedures. (3) There is potential shared
interest with the SBIB IRG in regard to nutritional support. CIGP
may be assigned applications that relate to nutritional support in
digestive system disease and
disorders,
whereas the SBIB IRG could be assigned applications that relate to
nutrition support in surgery, burn, sepsis and trauma.
-
With the Integrative,
Functional and Cognitive Neuroscience [IFCN] IRG: In general, the CIGP
study section would be assigned applications that focus on the enteric
nervous system control of the gastrointestinal tract and pancreas.
Similarly, applications focusing on mechanisms underlying general
homeostasis and other integrative mechanisms and functions of the
autonomic nervous systems would be assigned to the IFCN IRG.
[Back to Top]
Digestive Sciences Small
Business Activities [SBIR/STTR] Special Emphasis Panel
[DIG Small Business SEP-DIG (10)]
[SBIR/STTR Study Section Rosters]
Specific
areas covered by the DIG Small Business SEP:
The Digestive Sciences Small
Business Activities Special Emphasis Panel [DIG Small Business
SEP-DIG (10)] will consider SBIR and STTR research applications that focus
primarily on digestive system diagnostics, devices and therapies, and on
the disposition and action of nutrients and xenobiotics.
Investigators may employ a range of approaches that include genetics,
genomics and proteomics, molecular, cell, and computational biology,
biochemistry, biophysics and bioengineering, imaging, analyses of model
organisms, and human studies.
The DIG
Small Business SEP has the following shared interests outside the DIG
IRG:
-
With the Biological
Chemistry and Macromolecular Biophysics [BCMB] IRG: Shared interest
exists for structure-function relationships for
enzymes/transporters/receptors involved in nutrient and/or xenobiotic
disposition. Where interests are focused primarily on structure-function
relationship of enzymes, transporters and/or receptors for xenobiotics
and nutrients in the digestive system, they could be assigned to the DIG
Small Business SEP. Studies designed to address general principles of
enzymes, transporters and/or receptors may be considered under the
auspices of the BCMB IRG. Shared interests also exist in the study of
pro-drugs. Shared interests exist in the study of pro-drugs. Studies
focused primarily on the disposition and action of the pro-drug in the
digestive system could be assigned to the DIG Small Business SEP.
Studies of pro-drug structure and function that use primarily
biophysical techniques (e.g., X-ray diffraction, electron spin
resonance, and single molecular techniques) could be assigned to the
BCMB IRG.
-
With the Biology of
Development and Aging [BDA] IRG: Applications studying the use of stem cell
technology for digestive system specific issues could be assigned to the
DIG Small Business SEP. BDA may be considered for more general
developmental studies. Applications that use human embryonic stem
cells might also be clustered in the BDA IRG, even if studying digestive
system specific issues.
-
With the Bioengineering
Sciences and Technologies [BST] IRG: (1) Applications to
develop fundamental bioengineering methods related to devices,
pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions, gene therapy, and
computational/modeling approaches could be assigned to the BST IRG,
whereas those proposing development and validation of methods focusing
on digestive system diseases and their use in digestive system injury
and repair may be assigned to the DIG Small Business SEP. (2)
Applications that focus on gene or drug delivery when the purpose is
treatment of inherited and acquired digestive system disorders may be
appropriate for the DIG Small Business SEP. Development of novel
gene and drug delivery technologies may be assigned to the BST
IRG.
-
With the Risk, Prevention,
and Health Behavior [RPHB] and the Health of the Population [HOP]
IRGs:
Studies of behavior modification, including patient health education or
training, directed toward the prevention and treatment of digestive
system diseases, including psychological aspects, could be assigned to
the RPHB IRG, or to the HOP IRG, depending on the level of analysis and
the nature of the intervention. Applications on the diseases,
disorders, or functional consequences of behaviors related to the
digestive system could be assigned to the DIG Small Business SEP.
Health education or training directed to the health care provider in
gastroenterology, not the patient, should also be assigned to the DIG
Small Business SEP.
-
With the Oncological
Sciences [ONC] IRG: In general, studies of the biology, genetics,
interactions of cells with their microenvironment, or biomarkers for
early detection of GI dysplasia, pre-neoplastic conditions and
pre-neoplastic conditions of the liver would be assigned to the DIG
Small Business SEP. Those that involve GI and liver cancers (invasive
and metastatic cancers) and all other cancers including chemo- and
radiation therapy would be assigned to the ONC IRG. Studies of familial
adenomatous polyosis (FAP) as well as the pathology and treatment of
polyps in the GI system would be assigned to the DIG Small Business SEP.
In general, cell biological studies of GI or liver cancers would also be
assigned to the ONC IRG. Molecular and genetic studies of
Barrett's Esophagus and H. pylori infection (intestinal metaplasia)
would be assigned to the DIG Small Business SEP.
-
With the Surgical Sciences,
Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering [SBIB] IRG: (1) Applications to
develop fundamental imaging methods or early stages of development of
sensors may be assigned to the SBIB IRG, whereas those proposing
development and validation of methods focusing on evaluation of
digestive system function could be assigned to the DIG Small Business
SEP. (2) Applications having a bioengineering or device
development focus could be referred to SBIB or to the DIG Small Business
SEP depending on the focus of the application. If the device
relates to multiple organs, the application would be referred to SBIB.
Proposals on bioengineering related specifically to devices for
digestive system diseases and their use in digestive system injury and
repair are appropriate for the DIG Small Business SEP.
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