MAST Research Program

We're working to build more solutions for conditions of the microbiome - from #IBS and ##SIBO to PCOS and #Diabetes. How can you help?

support.cedars-sinai.edu/give/f2127909/…

Heartburn after a meal? Occasional reflux is common, but when it becomes persistent, it may be GERD. 🔥

November is GERD Awareness Month, a chance to bring attention to one of the most common digestive conditions.

In fact, an estimated 1 in 5 people in the U.S. live with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). For some, symptoms go beyond heartburn and can include regurgitation, difficulty swallowing, and chronic irritation of the esophagus.

So, what does this have to do with the gut microbiome?

At MAST, researchers are investigating how microbial activity may contribute to digestive conditions. Our work includes studying hydrogen sulfide-producing organisms and their potential role in conditions affecting the upper GI tract, including GERD and Barrett’s esophagus.

The more we understand about the relationship between microbes and the digestive system, the more opportunities we may uncover to improve how these conditions are diagnosed and treated.

This month, we're recognizing the importance of GERD awareness and the research working to move digestive health forward. 🦠

#GERDAwareness #GERD #GutMicrobiome #DigestiveHealth #GIResearch #MASTResearch

🌎 MAST is heading to Bogotá! 🇨🇴

This week, the MAST team will join the international neurogastroenterology and motility community at the 6th Federation of Neurogastroenterology and Motility (FNM) Meeting, November 5–7 in Bogotá, Colombia.

We're especially excited to see MAST's own Dr. Mark Pimentel and Dr. Ali Rezaie contribute to the scientific program:
🧬 Dr. Mark Pimentel will present Strategies of Microbiota Modulation in Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction on November 5th.
🔬 Dr. Ali Rezaie will present on Sucrase-Isomaltase Deficiency on November 6th.

From the gut microbiome to GI motility and disorders of gut-brain interaction, this meeting brings together many of the research areas driving MAST's work.

We're looking forward to connecting with colleagues, sharing perspectives, and being part of the conversations shaping the future of digestive health.

📍 Bogotá, Colombia | November 5–7, 2026

#FNM2026 #Neurogastroenterology #GutMicrobiome #Gastroenterology #DigestiveHealth #MASTResearch

🩸 November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Let's talk about the gut, too. 🦠

Diabetes affects millions of people, and the numbers are significant:
📊 40.1 million people in the U.S. are living with diabetes.
📊 115.2 million U.S. adults have prediabetes.
📊 Nearly 1 in 4 adults with diabetes don't know they have it.

At MAST, we're exploring the connection between the gut microbiome and metabolic health. Our researchers, including Dr. Ruchi Mathur and her team, study how gut microbes may influence metabolism, obesity, insulin resistance, and conditions like type 2 diabetes.

Why does this matter? Understanding the relationship between the gut microbiome and metabolic health could help uncover new insights into these complex conditions and inform future approaches to care.

This Diabetes Awareness Month, we're highlighting the importance of continued research, greater awareness, and a deeper understanding of the many factors that shape metabolic health.

#DiabetesAwarenessMonth #GutMicrobiome #MetabolicHealth #DiabetesResearch #MASTResearch #Obesity #Glucose

Diagnosed with Diarrhea?

Cedars-Sinai is conducting a research study evaluating a potential new treatment for IBS-D.

✔ Ages 18+
✔ Colonoscopy within the last 5 years
✔ No recent antibiotics
Compensation available.

For more information or to see if you qualify, please click on the link in our bio or contact the study team: groupmast@cshs.org

Or call:
310-423-3792