Digestive Health & Gastroenterology Clinical Trials Update: Week 33, 2026

Published August 14, 2026 — 5 trials covered

By Victor Lafforgue, Founder of TrialsAlert. Blog posts are AI-drafted from ClinicalTrials.gov source data and reviewed by the editorial team. See our editorial policy for details.

Estrogen Administration for the Treatment of NASH in Postmenopausal Women

This Phase 3 trial, led by Massachusetts General Hospital, is testing estradiol patches as a treatment for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in postmenopausal women. NASH is a liver condition that causes fat buildup and scarring, leading to serious health issues. This study explores whether estrogen replacement can reduce liver fat and fibrosis, potentially offering a new treatment option for women after menopause. The trial includes 50 participants and is currently active but not recruiting.

Oliceridine-Propofol Dose for Gastroscope Insertion in Obese Patients

This Phase 4 study is investigating the best doses of two sedative medications, oliceridine and propofol, for obese patients undergoing painless gastroscopy, a procedure to examine the stomach. The goal is to find a safer and more effective sedation method that reduces breathing problems during the procedure. The trial plans to enroll 80 patients and is not yet recruiting.

Genetic Determinants of Barrett's Esophagus and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma

Case Western Reserve University is conducting this study to understand the genetic and environmental factors linked to Barrett's Esophagus and esophageal cancer. By using non-invasive diagnostic tools, the research aims to improve early detection and prevention for those at risk. The trial is currently recruiting adults diagnosed with Barrett's Esophagus or at risk for esophageal cancer at multiple sites in the United States.

Development and Validation of a New Paediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease NUTrition Risk Score (PIBD-NUTS)

This study from the University of Glasgow focuses on creating a nutritional screening tool for children with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Early identification of malnutrition risk can help provide timely dietetic support to improve the health and wellbeing of young patients. The trial is active across several European countries and aims to enroll 2,000 pediatric patients.

Clinical Application of an AI-based Dissection Trajectory Prediction System (ADTPS) in Endoscopic Submucosal Dissection

Researchers at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University are testing an artificial intelligence system designed to guide endoscopic submucosal dissection, a treatment for early esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia. The AI aims to improve procedure accuracy and reduce complications. The study is recruiting 160 patients and will compare outcomes between AI-assisted and standard procedures.

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