Preventing heart damage caused by radiation therapy in cancer survivors
Inhibition of Radiation-Induced Coronary Microvascular Disease
This study is looking at how radiation therapy for cancer might harm the small blood vessels in the heart and is testing a new treatment that could help protect heart health for cancer survivors dealing with this issue.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Buffalo, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001927 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how radiation therapy for cancer can lead to coronary microvascular disease (CMD), a condition that affects the small blood vessels in the heart. The study aims to explore the mechanisms behind this injury and test a new treatment using a modified peptide called Lip-Ac-SDKP, which may help protect the heart by improving blood vessel function and reducing fibrosis. By understanding the effects of radiation on heart health, the research seeks to develop effective therapies for cancer survivors who experience CMD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are cancer survivors who have undergone chest radiation therapy and are experiencing symptoms related to coronary microvascular disease.
Not a fit: Patients who have not received radiation therapy or those with pre-existing severe heart conditions unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect the heart from damage caused by radiation therapy, improving the quality of life for cancer survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using similar approaches to mitigate heart damage from radiation, but this specific treatment is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Buffalo, United States
- Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp — Buffalo, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pokharel, Saraswati — Roswell Park Cancer Institute Corp
- Study coordinator: Pokharel, Saraswati
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.