Differences in how male and female intestines respond to radiation

Sex specific differences in intestinal radiosensitivity

NIH-funded research University of Kansas Medical Center · NIH-11098596

This study is looking at how men and women's intestines respond differently to radiation, especially when it comes to gut problems caused by radiation exposure, and it hopes to find ways to help the intestines heal better after such exposure.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11098596 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how male and female intestines react differently to radiation exposure, particularly in the context of gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS). It focuses on understanding the mechanisms behind these differences, especially the role of mitochondrial function and oxidative stress in intestinal damage and recovery. By studying the intestinal epithelium, which is highly sensitive to radiation, the research aims to identify potential strategies to improve recovery and mitigate radiation-induced harm. The findings could lead to better treatments and countermeasures for individuals exposed to radiation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to radiation or are at risk of radiation exposure, particularly those over 21 years old.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to radiation or are not at risk of radiation exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies for patients suffering from radiation exposure, enhancing recovery and reducing complications.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on sex differences in intestinal radiosensitivity is relatively novel, previous research has shown success in understanding radiation effects on intestinal tissues.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Acute Radiation Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.