Using stem cells to treat dry mouth caused by radiation therapy
Official title: Intra-salivary gland autotransplantation of marrow mesenchymal stromal cells for treatment of radiation induced xerostomia
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-11061779 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $340,478 |
| NIH project number | 5UH3DE030431-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11061779 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are head and neck cancer patients who have experienced dry mouth as a result of radiation therapy.
✕Less likely to help
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.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kimple, Randall J. — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Kimple, Randall J.
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.