Investigating how cancer treatments affect muscle health in children.
Official title: Cellular basis for cancer treatment related GDF15 expression and the regulation of skeletal muscle fibrosis and neuromuscular integrity.
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11053545 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how radiation and chemotherapy can affect the muscle health of kids who have survived cancer, aiming to find ways to help them avoid problems like muscle stiffness and weakness later on.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $378,075 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA290724-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053545 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents who have undergone cancer treatment and are experiencing muscle-related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not received cancer treatment or those without muscle health concerns may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the effects of cancer treatments, specifically radiation and chemotherapy, on the muscle health of pediatric cancer survivors. It focuses on understanding how these treatments can lead to muscle fibrosis and neuromuscular decline, which are conditions typically seen in older adults. By using advanced techniques like single cell RNA sequencing, the study aims to identify the cellular mechanisms involved, particularly the role of Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15) in muscle response to stress. The findings could help develop strategies to mitigate these adverse effects in young cancer survivors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that enhance muscle health and overall quality of life for pediatric cancer survivors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the cellular responses to cancer treatments can lead to significant improvements in patient care, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chakkalakal, Joe — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Chakkalakal, Joe
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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.