Healthy Control Esophageal and Gastric Registry and Biorepository

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the foregut, including the esophagus and stomach, to improve clinical evaluation methods for foregut physiology. This observational study focuses on healthy, asymptomatic volunteers to gather data on esophageal peristalsis and reflux disease using new diagnostic tools. These tools, EndoFLIP and mucosal integrity (MI) assessments, are performed during upper endoscopy and aim to provide quick, less uncomfortable alternatives to traditional methods. The study is sponsored by the University of Louisville and targets establishing normal reference values for these assessments. Participants will undergo esophageal and pyloric testing using EndoFLIP and MI during standard upper endoscopy procedures. These tests involve a balloon placed through the endoscope to assess esophageal and pyloric function and mucosal integrity without additional significant risk or discomfort. The study will collect diagnostic data and blood samples from healthy subjects to help define normal esophageal and gastric parameters. During the study, participants will complete gastroesophageal and gastric symptom questionnaires to confirm their asymptomatic status. Researchers will measure normative mucosal integrity and pyloric FLIP values over one year. The study excludes participants with prior gastrointestinal surgery, certain medical conditions, or medication use that could affect results. Participation involves one-time testing during endoscopy, with data collection focused on establishing benchmarks for future patient assessments.

Esophageal and Gastric Registry and Biorepository