Barrett's Esophagus Translational Research Network (BETRNet)
BETRNet, a multi-disciplinary, multi-institutional collaboration co-sponsored by NCI's Division of Cancer Prevention and Division of Cancer Biology, was established to centralize and enhance efforts to understand Barrett's esophagus (BE) and to prevent esophageal adenocarcinoma (EA).
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BE is the only known pre-cursor lesion to EA, a cancer with the fastest growing incidence rate in the United States, and a low (15%) overall 5-year survival rate. Because malignant progression in BE is thought to be similar to that of other solid tumors, scientific advances in BE research may provide insights for other pre-cancers as well.
BETRNet aims to speed the translation of important research findings from laboratory and clinical studies into useful medical applications. This includes validated diagnostics, improved patient management, cancer risk stratification and prediction, prevention strategies, and accurate criteria for BE screening and endoscopic surveillance.
Barrett’s Esophagus Translations Research Network @ CWRU
Genetic Determinants of Barrett's Esophagus and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma
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The overall objectives of the Case Western Reserve University BETRNet Research Center are:
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To conduct a rigorous, integrated spectrum of transdisciplinary human research in Barrett’s esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC);
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To increase the biological understanding of key observations made by our clinical researchers;
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To translate knowledge derived from genetic, epigenetic and transcriptome research to solving clinical dilemmas in detection, prognosis, prevention and therapy of BE in order to prevent EAC and improve the outcomes of EAC;
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To foster a transdisciplinary and translational research culture and to effectively expand and enhance scientific research focused on BE and EAC;
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To evaluate research and transdisciplinary programs and to continuously improve research, productivity and enhance translational implementation.
