Finding ways to reverse fibrosis in salivary glands
Remediating fibrosis for salivary gland regeneration
This study is looking into how scarring in the salivary glands happens and how it affects their ability to work, especially after radiation treatment or in people with Sjögren’s Disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve symptoms and quality of life for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Albany NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Albany, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11109506 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind fibrosis in salivary glands, particularly how excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition affects gland function. It focuses on understanding the role of specific cell types and signaling pathways that contribute to fibrosis, especially after radiation therapy or in conditions like Sjögren’s Disease. By utilizing advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to reverse fibrosis and restore gland function. Patients may benefit from new treatments that could improve their quality of life by alleviating symptoms associated with salivary gland dysfunction.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients who have experienced salivary gland fibrosis due to radiation therapy for head and neck cancers or those diagnosed with Sjögren’s Disease.
Not a fit: Patients with salivary gland issues not related to fibrosis or those with irreversible damage to the glands may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that restore salivary gland function and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from fibrosis-related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific cell types and signaling pathways to address fibrosis, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
Albany, United States
- State University of New York at Albany — Albany, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Larsen, Melinda — State University of New York at Albany
- Study coordinator: Larsen, Melinda
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.