Blocking P2X7 to prevent radiation-related dry mouth
The P2X7 receptor for ATP as a therapeutic target in the prevention of radiation-induced salivary gland dysfunction
This project looks at drugs that block a molecule called P2X7 to protect salivary glands and reduce dry mouth in people getting radiation for head and neck cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-Columbia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Columbia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11261541 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, researchers will test whether blocking the P2X7 receptor can stop radiation from damaging the glands that make saliva. They will use lab and animal experiments to give P2X7-blocking drugs around the time of radiation and measure saliva output and gland health over weeks to months. The team will study how long protection lasts, which doses work best, and the biological signals that cause damage. The long-term goal is to develop a safe approach that could be offered to people receiving head and neck radiotherapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People scheduled to receive radiotherapy for head and neck cancer, especially those whose salivary glands are likely to be in the radiation field, would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People whose dry mouth is caused mainly by autoimmune disease, medications, or already permanently damaged salivary glands are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could prevent or reduce chronic dry mouth after head and neck radiation and preserve swallowing, speaking, oral health, and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab and animal studies have shown that P2X7 blockers can protect salivary glands short-term, but longer-term protection and benefit in people have not yet been shown.
Where this research is happening
Columbia, United States
- University of Missouri-Columbia — Columbia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weisman, Gary Andrew — University of Missouri-Columbia
- Study coordinator: Weisman, Gary Andrew
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.