Understanding how radiation affects salivary gland healing
Ineffective wound healing responses enable chronic radiation-induced salivary gland dysfunction
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-10678634
This study is looking at how radiation therapy affects the salivary glands in people with head and neck cancer, especially for those dealing with dry mouth, to find better ways to help these glands heal and work properly again.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10678634 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the long-term effects of radiation therapy on salivary glands in head and neck cancer patients, particularly focusing on the condition known as xerostomia, or dry mouth. It aims to identify the stages of wound healing that are disrupted by radiation, which leads to chronic dysfunction of these glands. By studying the molecular processes involved in salivary gland damage and healing, the research seeks to develop targeted therapies that can restore normal function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatments for salivary gland dysfunction following cancer therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are head and neck cancer patients who have undergone radiation therapy and are experiencing chronic dry mouth.
Not a fit: Patients who have not received radiation therapy or those with salivary gland dysfunction due to non-radiation-related causes may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for patients suffering from dry mouth after radiation treatment.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding salivary gland damage and healing, but this specific approach to targeting the molecular stages of healing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
TUCSON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA — TUCSON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LIMESAND, KIRSTEN H — UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
- Study coordinator: LIMESAND, KIRSTEN H
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.