New Mechanisms of Barrett's Esophagus Development

Abstract

Barrett's esophagus is a pathological condition that develops as a result of metaplastic transformation of the stratified squamous non-keratinized epithelium of the mucous membrane of the distal esophagus into columnar epithelium of the intestinal type[13]. The objective of this review was to furnish information on new hypotheses and mechanisms concerning the development of Barrett's esophagus, with the aim of identifying trends in this area and advancing understanding of the disease's pathogenesis for the prevention of esophageal adenocarcinoma.<br /> A literary analysis of recent articles was conducted to investigate the mechanisms underlying the development of Barrett's esophagus.<br /> During the review of extensive literature, in addition to the classic theory of esophageal cell replacement, new mechanisms of cell transdifferentiation and transcommitment were identified.<br /> Much remains unknown, particularly regarding the originating cell population and the molecular events or stages through which Barrett's esophagus progresses to esophageal adenocarcinoma. These are crucial questions for researchers, the answers to which will significantly impact disease prevention and treatment. Despite the currently limited experimental model systems available for studying Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma, innovations in tissue engineering and organotypic cell culture systems based on human cells offer great prospects as platforms for future investigations into the pathogenesis and progression of these diseases.