Exploring how ghrelin can protect the intestines from radiation damage
Official title: Ghrelin as Radiation Countermeasure: Mechanism of Its Action
Funded at Feinstein Institute for Medical Research · NIH-11016759 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called ghrelin, which comes from the stomach, might help protect the gut and improve survival for people who have been exposed to radiation, and it could lead to new treatments for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Feinstein Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Manhasset, United States) |
| Project start | December 5, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $586,240 |
| NIH project number | 1U01AI186997-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11016759 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals who are at risk of radiation exposure, such as those undergoing radiation therapy for cancer or those in specific occupational settings.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have no risk of radiation exposure or those with conditions unrelated to gastrointestinal health may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the protective effects of ghrelin, a hormone produced in the stomach, against gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome (GI-ARS). The study aims to understand how ghrelin works through the nervous system to enhance intestinal health and survival after radiation exposure. By using animal models, researchers will assess how ghrelin treatment can improve intestinal integrity and increase survival rates following radiation injury. The findings could lead to the development of ghrelin as a therapeutic option for patients affected by radiation exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new treatment to protect patients from the harmful effects of radiation on the intestines.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with ghrelin in improving intestinal health after radiation exposure, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
Manhasset, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Ping — Feinstein Institute for Medical Research
- Study coordinator: Wang, Ping
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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.