Developing new treatments to protect healthy tissues during cancer radiation therapy
Official title: Novel extremophile-inspired radioprotectants
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10909534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new RNA treatments that could help protect healthy tissues from radiation damage in cancer patients, aiming to reduce side effects like mouth and bowel issues, so you can feel better during your treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,354,009 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2CA301081-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are undergoing radiation therapy and are at risk of experiencing radiation-induced injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not undergoing radiation therapy or those with conditions unrelated to radiation exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating innovative RNA-based therapies to protect healthy tissues from damage caused by radiation therapy in cancer patients. By utilizing extremophile proteins and advanced delivery methods, the project aims to specifically target and deliver protective nucleic acids to affected tissues. This approach seeks to minimize common side effects such as oral mucositis and proctitis, which can lead to severe complications and treatment interruptions. The goal is to enhance the effectiveness of radiation therapy while improving the overall quality of life for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the side effects of radiation therapy, leading to better treatment adherence and improved patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using RNA-based therapies for radiation protection is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other contexts, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Byrne, James Donald — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Byrne, James Donald
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.