SUMMARY
The research program of Prasad G. Iyer, M.D., M.S., is focused on the early detection of esophageal cancer and its precursors such as Barrett esophagus and squamous dysplasia. For his studies, Dr. Iyer uses novel nonendoscopic biomarker-enhanced and molecular technology, along with clinical trials and artificial intelligence-powered approaches. His research program is funded by the National Cancer Institute, the Department of Defense and several industry grants.
Focus areas
- Epidemiology and outcomes of endoscopic therapy of dysplastic Barrett esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Dr. Iyer and his team have described the epidemiology of Barrett esophagus in population-based studies, particularly the epidemiology of young-onset Barrett esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. This has helped focus attention on the need for early detection and cancer interception in this population.
- Minimally invasive techniques for the screening and early detection of Barrett esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma. Dr. Iyer and his team have conducted several clinical trials on minimally invasive technologies for the early detection of Barrett esophagus. These studies include:
- Transnasal endoscopy and transnasal capsule endoscopy.
- Swallowable cell collection devices with biomarkers.
- Exhaled volatile organic compounds.
- Risk stratification of Barrett esophagus using novel biomarkers. Dr. Iyer and his team have collaborated with industry partners in the discovery and validation of biomarkers. These can enhance the detection of prevalent dysplasia and help predict incident dysplasia in patients with Barrett esophagus.
- Clinical trial design and implementation training. Dr. Iyer is the program director of the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences-funded Clinical Trialist Training Program. He is also the medical director of the Mayo hub of the Trial Innovation Network. Dr. Iyer is passionate about promoting the structured training of junior faculty in the science of clinical trial design and conduct.
Significance to patient care
Esophageal adenocarcinoma is a lethal cancer, and the number of new cases is rapidly rising. Barrett esophagus is the only known signal to appear before esophageal adenocarcinoma. Dr. Iyer and his colleagues hope to improve the long-term results for patients with this cancer by developing methods to pinpoint the disease early on.
To reduce the incidence of esophageal adenocarcinoma, Dr. Iyer's team uses endoscopic therapy to track any unusual developments in advance. Finding these issues in their early stages allows for the effective treatment of esophageal cancer using noninvasive, safe endoscopic techniques.
Professional highlights
- Chair, Endoscopy Technology and Imaging Section, Digestive Disease Week (DDW) Council, American Gastroenterological Association, 2024-present.
- Chair, GIQuIC Research Committee, American College of Gastroenterology and American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, 2023-present.
- American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy:
- Chair, DDW Hands-On Committee, 2023-present.
- Distinguished Endoscopic Research Mentoring Award, 2024.
- Fellow, 2013-present.
- Chair, International Committee, 2013-2016.
- Chair, Esophageal Section, Annual Scientific Program Committee, 2009-2012.
- Associate editor, Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology, 2022-present.
- American College of Gastroenterology:
- Fellow, 2013-present.
- Governor's Award for Excellence in Clinical Research, 2008.
- Fellow, American College of Physicians, 2003-present.
- Associate editor, Diseases of the Esophagus, 2008-2014.