Gastrointestinal

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Vanderbilt researchers have engineered Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron, an obligate anaerobe, to endure oxygen-rich conditions in the gut, enhancing the survival and functionality of these probiotics used to treat inflammation.

Gastric cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death worldwide. While screening programs have had a tremendous impact on reducing mortality, the majority of cases occur in low and middle-income countries (LMIC). Typically, screening for gastric and esophageal cancer is performed using a flexible endoscope; however, endoscopy resources for these settings are traditionally limited. With the development of an inexpensive, disposable system by Vanderbilt researchers, gastroscopy and colonoscopy can be facilitated in areas hampered by a lack of access to the appropriate means.