Epigenetic approach to restoring saliva after head and neck radiation
Epigenetic Therapy to Treat Radiation-induced Xerostomia
A gene-based epigenetic approach aims to boost natural saliva production for people with chronic dry mouth after head and neck radiation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11299552 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work aims to turn on the mouth’s own water channel gene (AQP1) in salivary gland cells that survived radiation by changing DNA methylation. Researchers will use a new CRISPR-based epigenetic method and test it in lab-grown cells and animal models that mimic radiation-damaged salivary glands. Earlier AQP1 gene-delivery showed temporary saliva improvement, so the focus here is on achieving sustained, endogenous AQP1 expression. If successful, the team will optimize how to best change methylation levels and delivery for lasting benefit.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are people with chronic xerostomia and reduced salivary flow following head and neck radiotherapy.
Not a fit: People whose dry mouth is caused by medications, autoimmune diseases like Sjögren’s, or who have no remaining salivary gland tissue are less likely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could restore long-term saliva production and reduce chronic dry mouth and its complications in people who had head and neck radiation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous AQP1 gene-delivery approaches (viral and non-viral) improved saliva temporarily, but sustained expression has not been achieved and this CRISPR epigenetic approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lombaert, Isabelle M.a. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lombaert, Isabelle M.a.
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.