Dennis M. Jensen, MD
Dr. Dennis M. Jensen is a renowned gastroenterologist and researcher with significant contributions to the understanding and management of gastrointestinal (GI) hemorrhage and other GI disorders. His work includes studies on risk factors, pathogenesis, randomized controlled trials (RCTs), endoscopic technologies, prevention, and health outcomes. Recently, he has focused on iron deficiency following acute GI hemorrhage. His research, funded by a UCLA Academic Senate Faculty Research Grant, highlights his commitment to improving GI health.
Dr. Jensen also investigates blood flow in GI lesions, utilizing both laboratory and clinical studies. His research has been continuously funded for over 35 years through various grants, including NIH-NIDDK, VA Merit Review Awards, DoD, and GI Foundations.
As a dedicated mentor, Dr. Jensen has guided many young investigators and has been the Principal Investigator (PI) of a UCLA NIH-NIDDK T32 GI Training Grant for 23 years. His recent projects include a VA Research Service Merit Review Clinical Grant for an RCT on Doppler endoscopic probe blood flow monitoring and a study comparing colon capsule endoscopy with other diagnostic methods for severe hematochezia.
Ongoing Research Support:
- T32 DK07180 NIH/NIDDK GI Training Grant
- PI: Jensen
- 07/01/21-06/30/26
- This NIH training grant supports career development and research training for post-doctoral GI fellows (MDs) or PhDs in digestive sciences at UCLA and the VA.
Pending Research Support:
- R21EB0358638
- 09/01/2024 – 08/31/2026
- 07/01/21-06/30/26
-
The project aims to develop a fast-clotting injectable hemostat for hemorrhage
treatment at the point of injury.
Completed Research Support:
- UCLA Academic Senate Faculty Research Grant
- PI: Jensen
- 07/01/23 – 06/30/24
-
A retrospective database study evaluating the frequency and treatment of iron
deficiency anemia after severe GI hemorrhage.
- UCLA Academic Senate Faculty Research Grant
- PI: Jensen
- 08/25/19 – 06/30/24 (NCE due to COVID-19)
- A study comparing the diagnostic yield of colon capsule endoscopy with standard tests for patients with severe hematochezia.
- Contributions to Science:
- Studies of Lower GI or Small Bowel Hemorrhage: Dr. Jensen has conducted pioneering studies that have significantly advanced the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of patients with severe hematochezia. His work has contributed to changing the standard of care for lower GI bleeding.
- Endoscopic Hemostasis of Ulcers and Non-Variceal GI Lesions: Dr. Jensen's research has influenced international guidelines and improved clinical practices for the management of severe non-variceal upper GI hemorrhage.
- Endoscopic Studies of Esophageal and Gastric Varices: Dr. Jensen developed a surgical model of esophageal and gastric varices used in studies to evaluate endoscopic techniques for hemostasis, contributing to the development of clinical guidelines for endoscopic treatment.
Dr. Jensen continues to lead innovative research and mentor the next generation of GI researchers, with a commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of gastrointestinal disorders.