Using R-carvedilol to prevent skin cancer caused by UV rays
Official title: Preventing UV-induced immunosuppression and skin carcinogenesis with R-carvedilol
Funded at Western University of Health Sciences · NIH-10866514 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special version of a heart medication called R-carvedilol can help prevent skin cancer from UV rays by applying it directly to the skin, so it doesn't affect your blood pressure or cause side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western University of Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pomona, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $306,411 |
| NIH project number | 5R01CA269653-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10866514 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at high risk for skin cancer due to UV exposure, such as those with fair skin or a history of sunburns.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of UV exposure or skin cancer may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how R-carvedilol, a non-β-blocking form of a common heart medication, can prevent skin cancer caused by UV radiation. The study focuses on developing a targeted delivery system that applies R-carvedilol directly to the skin, minimizing systemic absorption and potential side effects. By examining the effects of this treatment, researchers aim to understand its ability to prevent DNA damage and immunosuppression associated with UV exposure. The approach is based on preliminary findings that suggest R-carvedilol can effectively inhibit skin cancer development without impacting blood pressure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new topical treatment that significantly reduces the risk of skin cancer for individuals exposed to UV radiation.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using β-blockers for cancer prevention, but the specific approach with R-carvedilol is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Western University of Health Sciences
Pomona, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Ying — Western University of Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Huang, Ying
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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.