Targeting a receptor to protect salivary glands during cancer treatment
The P2X7 receptor for ATP as a therapeutic target in the prevention of radiation-induced salivary gland dysfunction
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA · NIH-11009970
This study is looking at how a special treatment might help protect the salivary glands of people with head and neck cancer from damage caused by radiation therapy, aiming to keep their saliva production healthy during and after treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11009970 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how blocking the P2X7 receptor for ATP can help protect salivary glands from damage caused by radiation therapy in patients with head and neck cancer. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind radiation-induced salivary dysfunction and to evaluate the effectiveness of P2X7 receptor antagonists in preserving salivary gland function during and after treatment. By focusing on the role of extracellular ATP in tissue damage, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to improve the quality of life for affected patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma who are scheduled to receive radiation therapy.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing radiation therapy or those with other types of cancer unrelated to head and neck squamous cell carcinoma may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the incidence of dry mouth and improve salivary function in patients undergoing radiation therapy for head and neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in using P2X7 receptor antagonists for radioprotection, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA — COLUMBIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WEISMAN, GARY ANDREW — UNIVERSITY OF MISSOURI-COLUMBIA
- Study coordinator: WEISMAN, GARY ANDREW
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.
Conditions: anti-cancer therapy