How low oxygen levels in tumors affect resistance to radiation therapy

Tumor hypoxia promotes acquired resistance to radiation through ferroptosis inhibition

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR · NIH-10917382

This study is looking at how low oxygen levels in lung and esophageal tumors make them tougher to treat with radiation, and it aims to find new ways to help these cancers respond better to treatment.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TX MD ANDERSON CAN CTR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10917382 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how low oxygen levels within tumors, known as tumor hypoxia, contribute to the resistance of lung and esophageal cancers to radiation therapy. By examining cancer cell lines that lack a specific protein involved in cell death, the study aims to understand the mechanisms behind this resistance, particularly focusing on a type of cell death called ferroptosis. The researchers will manipulate oxygen levels and measure various cellular responses to radiation, which could lead to new strategies for overcoming treatment resistance in these cancers.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with lung or esophageal cancer who are undergoing radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients with cancers other than lung or esophageal cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved radiation therapy outcomes for patients with lung and esophageal cancers by identifying ways to overcome treatment resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting tumor hypoxia can enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments, suggesting that this approach may yield promising results.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cancer Treatment

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.