Investigating how sex differences affect gastrointestinal fibrosis after radiation exposure

Sex differences in delayed development of gastrointestinal fibrosis after acute radiation exposure

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11101325

This study is looking at how high doses of radiation can cause long-term gut problems, especially in the small intestine and colon, and it wants to see if men and women react differently to this damage, with a focus on finding new ways to help those affected.

Quick facts

Grant typeU01 cooperative agreement
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11101325 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how exposure to high doses of radiation can lead to delayed gastrointestinal injuries, particularly fibrosis in the small intestine and colon. The study aims to explore the differences between males and females in their response to radiation, as preliminary findings suggest that females may experience more severe fibrosis. By examining the role of Type I Interferon signaling in this process, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for preventing or treating these injuries. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for radiation-induced gastrointestinal complications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have been exposed to high doses of radiation due to accidents or nuclear events.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to radiation or do not have gastrointestinal complications related to radiation exposure may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of effective therapies to prevent or mitigate gastrointestinal damage caused by radiation exposure.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on sex differences in delayed gastrointestinal fibrosis after radiation exposure is novel, related research has shown success in understanding radiation injury mechanisms.

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.