Investigating a drug's effect on eye damage from radiation therapy

Rusalatide Acetate (TP508) Mitigation Effect on Radiation Induced Keratopathy

NIH-funded research Affirmed Pharma, LLC · NIH-10605739

This study is looking at how a drug called rusalatide acetate might help protect the eyes of people who have had radiation therapy for head and neck cancers, with the hope of reducing vision problems and discomfort caused by radiation damage.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAffirmed Pharma, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Conroe, United States)
Project IDNIH-10605739 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on the impact of rusalatide acetate (TP508) in preventing or repairing damage to the cornea caused by radiation therapy, particularly in patients treated for head and neck cancers. The study uses a mouse model to explore how this drug can protect corneal epithelial cells, neurons, and lacrimal cells from radiation-induced harm. By understanding the mechanisms of radiation keratopathy, the research aims to improve the quality of life for affected patients by potentially mitigating vision loss and discomfort.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients receiving radiation therapy for head and neck malignancies who are at risk of developing radiation-induced keratopathy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone radiation therapy or those with pre-existing severe corneal diseases may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that reduce vision loss and enhance the quality of life for patients undergoing radiation therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches in mitigating radiation effects, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Conroe, 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 Cancers
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.