Preventing Skin Cancer from Sun Exposure with a Modified Medication
Preventing UV-induced immunosuppression and skin carcinogenesis with R-carvedilol
['FUNDING_R01'] · WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11111293
This project explores a new way to protect skin from sun damage and prevent skin cancer using a modified version of a common heart medication applied to the skin.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (POMONA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11111293 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Skin cancer, especially non-melanoma types, is very common and often caused by too much sun exposure, which can damage DNA, cause inflammation, and weaken the skin's immune system. Researchers are looking at a drug called carvedilol, typically used for heart conditions, because it has shown promise in preventing skin cancer in lab and animal tests. To avoid potential heart-related side effects, this project is developing a skin-targeted delivery system and focusing on a specific part of carvedilol, called R-carvedilol, which does not affect the heart. The goal is to find a safe and effective way to prevent skin cancer without causing unwanted systemic side effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is relevant for individuals at high risk for non-melanoma skin cancer due to sun overexposure.
Not a fit: Patients with existing skin cancers or those not at risk for UV-induced skin cancer may not directly benefit from this specific preventive approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to a new topical medication that safely prevents skin cancer caused by sun exposure.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary lab and animal data indicate that carvedilol, and its R-enantiomer, can effectively prevent UV-induced skin cancer and immunosuppression.
Where this research is happening
POMONA, UNITED STATES
- WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES — POMONA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUANG, YING — WESTERN UNIVERSITY OF HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: HUANG, YING
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.