In the Tetreault Lab, our goal is to better understand the crosstalk between epithelial cells and their surrounding microenvironment (immune cells, fibroblasts, endothelial cells). A particular area of expertise of our laboratory is in defining the role of epithelial inflammatory mediators in esophageal tissue homeostasis and esophageal disease pathogenesis. Our diseases of interest include esophageal cancer, eosinophilic esophagitis, scleroderma esophageal disease and achalasia. Our research program focuses on two key inflammatory pathways: the IKKß/NF¿B and STAT3 pathways. We employ novel three-dimensional culture models (3D organotypic culture, 3D esophageal organoids) and in vivo models (genetically-engineered and chemically induced) and state-of-the-art methodology (single-cell RNA sequencing, bulk RNA sequencing, multiplex ELISA, high parameter flow cytometer) to define key factors regulating epithelial-epithelial and epithelial-stromal signaling in the esophagus. We also use patient-derived specimens with derived clinical data. We expect that these investigations will uncover novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for esophageal diseases.