Investigating how certain cells affect bone healing after radiation treatment in older cancer survivors

Role of p21 positive senescent cells in radiation-induced skeletal injury and repair

NIH-funded research Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-11077308

This study is looking at how certain aging cells in the bones, especially those marked by a specific protein, can affect healing after radiation therapy in older cancer survivors, with the goal of finding new ways to help improve bone health and overall quality of life for these patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11077308 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of specific senescent cells, particularly those expressing the p21 marker, in the healing of skeletal injuries caused by radiation therapy in elderly cancer survivors. The study employs advanced techniques such as gene expression analysis and mass cytometry to identify and characterize unique populations of bone cells that may influence bone repair and deterioration. By examining how these cells behave in response to radiation, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets to improve bone health and quality of life for affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are elderly cancer survivors who have received radiation treatment and are experiencing skeletal injuries or deterioration.

Not a fit: Patients who are not cancer survivors or those who have not undergone radiation therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance bone healing and reduce fracture risk in older cancer survivors who have undergone radiation therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cellular senescence and its impact on aging and injury repair, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Rochester, 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.
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.