Stomach Disease Research

Stomach Disorders

Vanderbilt School of Medicine basic science researchers study stomach (gastric) cancer by uncovering the molecular and cellular mechanisms that drive tumor initiation, progression, and treatment resistance. Work spans cancer genetics and epigenetics, oncogenic signaling, metabolism, and interactions with the tumor microenvironment and immune system. Many labs use patient-derived samples, organoid cultures, and animal models to test how factors such as inflammation and infection contribute to disease and to identify biomarkers and drug targets. The overall goal is to translate mechanistic discoveries into improved detection strategies and more effective, durable therapies for patients with gastric cancer.