Using stem cells to treat dry mouth caused by radiation therapy

Intra-salivary gland autotransplantation of marrow mesenchymal stromal cells for treatment of radiation induced xerostomia

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-11061779

This study is testing a new treatment to help people with dry mouth caused by radiation therapy for head and neck cancer, using special cells to boost saliva production and make life a little easier for them.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11061779 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a new treatment for dry mouth, a common side effect of radiation therapy in head and neck cancer patients. It focuses on using bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells to improve salivary gland function and alleviate symptoms of xerostomia. The study aims to conduct a Phase 1 trial to assess the safety and tolerability of this innovative cellular therapy. By enhancing saliva production and quality, the research seeks to improve patients' quality of life significantly.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are head and neck cancer patients who have experienced dry mouth as a result of radiation therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not undergone radiation therapy or those with other causes of dry mouth unrelated to cancer treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel and effective treatment option for patients suffering from radiation-induced dry mouth.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of cellular therapies for salivary gland function is an emerging field, similar approaches have shown promise in preliminary studies, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.