Esophagus and GERD
Education on Esophagus and GERD and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin research from the Mark Egly Foundation, with patent claims clearly labeled as hypothesis.
Research hypothesis, not medical advice
The connections described on this page come from Mark Egly's patent filing and ongoing research. They are not established medical facts. Always work with your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
Research hypothesis. The connection between Esophagus and GERD and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin is described in Mark Egly's 2020 patent filing. This is not established medical fact and is not medical advice. Always talk with your doctor about your own health.
What is Esophagus and GERD?
Esophagus and GERD is a health condition discussed in Mark Egly's research on Alpha-1 Antitrypsin. Gastrointestinal conditions affect the digestive tract.
What Mark Egly's patent discusses
Gastroesophageal reflux disease ("GERD") is a long-term condition where acid from the stomach comes up into the esophagus. Many people occasionally experience gastroesophageal reflux; however, if an individual experiences acid reflux more than twice a week, they may be diagnosed with GERD. Patients suffering from conditions affecting the esophagus, including acid indigestion, GERD, and esophageal carcinoma, are actually suffering manifestations caused by excess neutrophil elastase ("NE"). Coughing caused by varying meal types can be a sign of inflammation that should be monitored and tracked as proper maintenance of the alimentary canal. AAT is a powerful inhibitor of NE. Due to the link between AATD and conditions affecting the esophagus, in one embodiment AAT may be used to treat, control, or prevent conditions affecting the esophagus in patients, either with or without known AATD. A diagnosis of a condition affecting the esophagus may prompt a medical provider to test a patient for AATD. Alternatively, a patient diagnosed with a condition affecting the esophagus may seek genetic testing for AATD through an independent genetic testing company such as 23andMe or geneology.com, a…
How this may relate to Alpha-1
Mark Egly's patent proposes that when the body has too little working Alpha-1 Antitrypsin, or when neutrophils release too much neutrophil elastase, inflammation and tissue damage may worsen. For Esophagus and GERD, the patent suggests that testing for AATD or low circulating AAT could help guide care. This is a research hypothesis, not a proven treatment path for everyone with this condition.
What you can do
If you or a family member lives with Esophagus and GERD, consider learning about Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency and discussing AAT testing with your healthcare team. The Mark Egly Foundation offers education and community support: