Investigating how tiny particles affect bladder toxicity in prostate cancer patients after radiation treatment

Clinical and pre-clinical investigation of extracellular vesicles as a mechanism of toxicity in the bladder of prostate cancer patients treated with radiotherapy

NIH-funded research University of Rochester · NIH-11067761

This study is looking at tiny particles in the body called extracellular vesicles to see if they can help predict bladder problems in prostate cancer patients who have had radiation treatment, with the goal of finding better ways to manage these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Rochester NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Rochester, United States)
Project IDNIH-11067761 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how extracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to radiation cystitis, a condition affecting about 15% of prostate cancer patients who have undergone radiotherapy. The study aims to identify these vesicles as potential biomarkers for predicting bladder toxicity and to explore their role in the disease's development. By analyzing preserved samples from previous studies, researchers hope to establish a link between EV levels and the onset of bladder complications, which could lead to better management strategies for affected patients. The approach combines laboratory analysis with insights from previous genomic studies to enhance patient care.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are prostate cancer patients who have received radiotherapy and are experiencing or at risk of developing bladder complications.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone radiotherapy or those with bladder issues unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatments for bladder toxicity in prostate cancer survivors.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research on EVs in this context, preliminary findings suggest a promising link between EV levels and bladder toxicity, indicating potential for further exploration.

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.
Conditions Acute Radiation Syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.