Investigating how to prevent lymphatic dysfunction caused by a common breast cancer treatment.

Ryanodine Receptors as Therapeutic Targets to Prevent Doxorubicin-Induced Lymphatic Dysfunction

['FUNDING_R37'] · UNIV OF ARKANSAS FOR MED SCIS · NIH-10904901

This study is looking at how the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin might cause swelling in the arms or legs (lymphedema) for people being treated for breast and gynecological cancers, and it hopes to find ways to prevent or treat this issue by understanding how certain cells in the lymphatic system are affected.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R37']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIV OF ARKANSAS FOR MED SCIS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LITTLE ROCK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10904901 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the chemotherapy drug doxorubicin contributes to lymphatic dysfunction, particularly lymphedema, in patients undergoing treatment for breast and gynecological cancers. The study examines the role of ryanodine receptors, which are calcium channels in lymph muscle cells, and how their activation by doxorubicin leads to increased calcium levels that may cause damage to lymphatic vessels. By identifying the mechanisms involved, the research aims to develop potential therapeutic targets to prevent or treat lymphedema in affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer patients who are undergoing treatment with doxorubicin and are at risk of developing lymphedema.

Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving doxorubicin or those who have already developed severe lymphedema may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent lymphedema in breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting ryanodine receptors in this context is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding and mitigating chemotherapy-related complications.

Where this research is happening

LITTLE ROCK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Breast Cancer, Breast Cancer Patient, Breast Cancer therapy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.