Using Galectin-3 to Protect the Heart from Radiation Damage
Immunomodulation of Galectin-3 to Prevent Radiation-Induced Myocardial Fibrogenesis
This study is looking at how a special treatment can help protect the hearts of cancer patients from damage caused by radiation therapy by targeting a molecule called Galectin-3, and it will be tested in mice first to see if it works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11040301 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how Galectin-3, a molecule involved in inflammation and fibrosis, can be modulated to prevent heart damage caused by radiation therapy in cancer patients. The study aims to understand the role of Galectin-3 in the inflammatory response and fibrotic changes that occur in the heart after radiation exposure. By developing a new immunomodulatory vaccine that targets Galectin-3, the researchers hope to provide a protective effect against these harmful changes. The approach includes testing this vaccine in a mouse model to evaluate its effectiveness in reducing heart damage.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing radiation therapy for thoracic cancers who are at risk of developing heart complications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not receiving radiation therapy or those with pre-existing severe heart conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect the heart from radiation-induced damage in cancer patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using Galectin-3 modulation is novel, similar immunomodulatory strategies have shown promise in other areas of cardiac protection.
Where this research is happening
Amherst, United States
- State University of New York at Buffalo — Amherst, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sharma, Umesh C — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Sharma, Umesh C
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.