Using stem cells to regenerate damaged salivary glands in cancer survivors
Manipulating Stem Cells to Provide Long Term Regeneration of Irradiated Salivary Glands
This study is looking at new ways to help people with head-and-neck cancer who have dry mouth from radiation treatment by exploring how certain stem cells can help repair damaged salivary glands.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10434885 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new therapies to permanently repair salivary glands that have been damaged by radiation treatment in head-and-neck cancer patients. The team is investigating a specific type of stem cell, known as KIT+ cells, and how a transcription factor called SOX10 influences their ability to regenerate tissue. By studying these cells in detail, the researchers aim to enhance the effectiveness of stem cell therapies for patients suffering from dry mouth due to radiation. The approach involves characterizing the stem cell populations and understanding their molecular properties to improve treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have received radiation treatment for head-and-neck cancer and are experiencing dry mouth as a result.
Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone radiation therapy or those with other unrelated salivary gland disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to long-lasting solutions for restoring saliva production in patients who have undergone radiation therapy for head-and-neck cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using stem cell therapies for tissue regeneration, but this specific approach targeting salivary glands is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lombaert, Isabelle M.a. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lombaert, Isabelle M.a.
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.