Investigating a drug's effect on eye damage from radiation therapy
Official title: Rusalatide Acetate (TP508) Mitigation Effect on Radiation Induced Keratopathy
Funded at Affirmed Pharma, LLC · NIH-10605739 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Affirmed Pharma, LLC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Conroe, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $341,302 |
| NIH project number | 1R41EY034773-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10605739 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients receiving radiation therapy for head and neck malignancies who are at risk of developing radiation-induced keratopathy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not undergone radiation therapy or those with pre-existing severe corneal diseases may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Affirmed Pharma, LLC
Conroe, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Andley, Usha P — Affirmed Pharma, LLC
- Study coordinator: Andley, Usha P
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.