Understanding how chemotherapy affects blood vessel function in cancer survivors

Mechanism of Chemotherapy Induced Microvascular Dysfunction in Cancer Survivors

NIH-funded research Medical College of Wisconsin · NIH-11064060

This study looks at how chemotherapy, especially a type called anthracyclines like doxorubicin, affects blood vessel health in breast cancer survivors, aiming to understand how these treatments might lead to heart problems later on.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMedical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-11064060 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of chemotherapy, particularly anthracycline-based treatments like doxorubicin, on the function of blood vessels in breast cancer survivors. It focuses on how these treatments can lead to microvascular dysfunction and mitochondrial damage, which may contribute to cardiovascular issues. By examining the mechanisms behind these effects, the study aims to uncover the relationship between chemotherapy-induced damage and long-term health outcomes in patients. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze mitochondrial DNA damage and its role in vascular inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are breast cancer survivors who have undergone anthracycline-based chemotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not received chemotherapy or those with non-breast cancer diagnoses may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for managing cardiovascular health in cancer survivors, enhancing their overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that chemotherapy can adversely affect cardiovascular health, but this specific mechanistic approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, 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 anti-cancer therapy
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.