Creating an Implantable Salivary Gland to Treat Dry Mouth
Functional Biointegration of Bioengineered Salivary Tissues in Irradiated Animal Models
This project aims to create a working, implantable salivary gland for people who experience chronic dry mouth after radiation treatment for head and neck cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128679 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our team is working to develop a complete, implantable human salivary gland to help patients who suffer from chronic dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, often caused by radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. We are testing a specially engineered salivary tissue replacement, called 3D-ST, in advanced animal models to ensure it can restore both water and enzyme production needed for digestion and oral health. This work builds on previous successes where implanted human cells in the 3D-ST showed long-term viability and restored salivary function in irradiated models. The goal is to ensure the new tissue can integrate well with the body's blood vessels and nerves for lasting success.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is ultimately intended for patients experiencing chronic dry mouth (xerostomia) as a result of radiation treatment for head and neck cancer.
Not a fit: Patients whose dry mouth is not caused by radiation therapy for head and neck cancer may not directly benefit from this specific approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that restores normal salivary function for patients with chronic dry mouth caused by radiation therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Our team has already shown promising results with implanted human cells restoring salivary function in animal models, indicating a strong foundation for this work.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Farach-Carson, Mary C — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Farach-Carson, Mary C
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.