Preventing bladder problems after radiation for pelvic cancers
Targeting angiotensin and inflammation to prevent radiotherapy-induced bladder toxicity.
This work explores ways to prevent bladder irritation and pain that can happen after radiation treatment for pelvic cancers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158632 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Radiation therapy is a common and effective treatment for many pelvic cancers, but it can sometimes lead to a chronic condition called radiation cystitis, causing symptoms like frequent urination, urgency, and pain. Currently, there are no FDA-approved ways to prevent this condition, and existing treatments have limitations. This project builds on earlier findings that suggest certain blood pressure medications, called ACE inhibitors, might protect the bladder during radiation. Researchers are also looking at how inflammation and specific genetic markers are linked to these bladder issues. The goal is to understand the underlying causes better and find new ways to prevent this difficult side effect.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients undergoing radiation therapy for pelvic malignancies, particularly those at risk for radiation cystitis, are the target population for future applications of this research.
Not a fit: Patients not receiving pelvic radiation therapy or those without a risk of radiation cystitis would not directly benefit from this specific preventative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventative treatments for radiation-induced bladder toxicity, significantly improving the quality of life for cancer patients undergoing pelvic radiation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous multi-site clinical observations have supported the hypothesis that ACE inhibitors may offer protection against radiation cystitis in the bladder.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marples, Brian — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Marples, Brian
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 below.