The effects of Erdr1 in promoting Lgr5+ ISC regeneration and crypt cell proliferation after radiation-induced injury, as well as in response to mucosal damage from DSS, indicate that this factor may be exploited for therapeutic benefit during cancer therapy and in the context of mucosal ulcerations, such as seen in gastric ulcers and in human inflammatory bowel disease. The gene discussed is LGR5; the disease is cancer.