Improving recovery from radiation damage in the intestines

Mitigation of gastrointestinal acute radiation syndrome by promoting clusterin-mediated intestinal regeneration

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11015450

This study is looking at how a special protein called Clusterin can help the intestines heal after they've been hurt by radiation, which can happen in situations like nuclear accidents, and the goal is to find new ways to help people recover better from radiation-related injuries.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015450 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the intestines can heal after being damaged by radiation, which can occur during nuclear accidents or warfare. The team is investigating a protein called Clusterin that plays a crucial role in the regeneration of intestinal cells after radiation exposure. By exploring the mechanisms behind this process, they aim to develop new treatments that could help patients recover from acute radiation syndrome more effectively. The research involves both laboratory studies and potential therapeutic applications to promote healing in the intestines.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, such as in nuclear accidents or warfare.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to radiation or who have other unrelated gastrointestinal conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve recovery from radiation-induced intestinal damage.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar biological pathways to promote healing in other contexts, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Durham, 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.
Conditions Acute Radiation Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.