# NRF2-ACSS2 Axis in Alcohol-induced Metabolic Reprogramming and Esophageal Pathology

> **NIH NIH R01** · CORIELL INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH · 2024 · $589,786

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY
This multiple-PI R01 proposal is designed to incorporate both in vitro and in vivo approaches to elucidate the
role of the NRF2-ACSS2 axis in alcohol-induced metabolic reprogramming and esophageal pathology. We
hypothesize that the NRF2-ACSS2 axis mediates metabolic reprogramming in alcohol-associated esophageal
pathology. We will test this hypothesis using human cells and genetically modified mice through three
independent and complementary Specific Aims. In Aim 1, we will characterize the role of NRF2-ACSS2 axis in
mediating alcohol-induced metabolic reprogramming in human esophageal squamous epithelial cells in vitro. In
Aim 2, we will validate the role of the NRF2-ACSS2 axis in mediating alcohol-induced metabolic
reprogramming in mouse esophagus in vivo. In Aim 3, we will examine the inhibitory effects of NRF2 and
ACSS2 inhibitors on alcohol-induced metabolic reprogramming and esophageal pathology in vivo. If the
hypothesis proved to be true, these studies will lay down a solid mechanistic foundation for NRF2/ACSS2
inhibition as a novel mechanism-based preventive measure against alcohol-associated esophageal pathology
in the future.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10893607
- **Project number:** 5R01AA030026-04
- **Recipient organization:** CORIELL INSTITUTE FOR MEDICAL RESEARCH
- **Principal Investigator:** XIAOXIN Luke CHEN
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $589,786
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2022-08-01 → 2027-07-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10893607

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10893607, NRF2-ACSS2 Axis in Alcohol-induced Metabolic Reprogramming and Esophageal Pathology (5R01AA030026-04). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-11 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10893607. Licensed CC0.

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