Protecting rectal tissues from radiation damage in cancer treatment

Use of radioprotector in rectal cancer

NIH-funded research University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-11026406

This study is looking at a new treatment called BMX-001 that might help protect the healthy tissues in your rectum and anus from damage during radiation therapy for rectal cancer, aiming to reduce side effects like bowel problems while still fighting the cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-11026406 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of a small molecule antioxidant called BMX-001 to protect normal rectal and anal tissues from damage caused by radiation therapy in patients with rectal cancer. The study aims to understand how BMX-001 can prevent complications such as bowel fibrosis and incontinence while still effectively targeting cancer cells. By focusing on the mechanisms of radiation-induced damage and the protective effects of BMX-001, the research seeks to improve patient outcomes during cancer treatment. Patients undergoing radiation therapy for rectal or anal cancers may benefit from this innovative approach.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with rectal or anal cancer who are scheduled to receive radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing radiation therapy for rectal or anal cancers may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the long-term complications associated with radiation therapy for rectal cancer patients.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data suggest that similar antioxidant approaches have shown promise in protecting normal tissues during cancer treatments, indicating potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, 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 SyndromeAmerican Cancer SocietyAnal Cancer
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.