Finding ways to treat nerve damage caused by chemotherapy
Developing mechanism-based strategies to treat chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
This study is looking for ways to help cancer patients who experience painful nerve damage from chemotherapy, by using a special virus to deliver treatments that can protect their nerves and improve their comfort during and after treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11003966 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), a painful and debilitating condition that affects many cancer patients undergoing treatment. The team is developing innovative strategies to prevent nerve damage caused by chemotherapeutic agents like vincristine and bortezomib. By targeting a specific protein involved in nerve degeneration, they aim to enhance the quality of life for patients during and after cancer treatment. The approach includes using a modified virus to deliver therapeutic agents that can block the harmful effects of chemotherapy on nerves.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who are currently undergoing chemotherapy and experiencing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or those who do not experience peripheral neuropathy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for cancer patients by reducing or preventing painful nerve damage caused by chemotherapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways for nerve protection, indicating that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Geisler, Stefanie — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Geisler, Stefanie
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.