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Improving Outcomes in Radiotherapy using Novel Biotechnologies: Modification of Tissue Reactions and the Use of Stem Cell Therapeutics
Closed for proposals
Project Type
Project Code
E33032CRP
1634Approved Date
Status
Start Date
Expected End Date
Completed Date
15 November 2012Description
During radiotherapy, the most important dose-limiting factor is sensitivity of the normal tissue lying in the radiation field. This can result in organ damage or severe normal tissue reactions. Radiation-induced organ damage is mainly caused by stem cell sterilization and hence leading to a reduced reconstitution of functional cells in the irradiated organ. Replenishment of the depleted stem cell compartment should allow regeneration of irradiated tissues/organs. The major aim of the project is to facilitate and disseminate stem cell research in IAEA Member States to prevent radiation-induced damage to normal tissues/organs. If this approach has proven to be successful in pre-clinical studies, stem cell therapy could be tested in future clinical trials. Moreover, this newly acquired knowledge/expertise could also be used to design new strategies in the treatment of victims of radiation accidents
Objectives
The major aim of the project was to provide Member States with new and relevant knowledge on stem cell therapeutics (i.e. optimization of techniques) to prevent radiation-induced damage to normal organs/normal tissues. If this approach has proven to be successful in pre-clinical studies, stem cell therapy could be tested in future clinical trials. Moreover, newly acquired knowledge/expertise could also be used to initiate new strategies in the treatment of victims of radiation accidents. The initiation of collaboration between relevant laboratories; establishing of exchange programs and joint applications for additional funding will be stimulated.
Specific objectives
• Which cells/compounds or combinations have the highest potential of reducing radiation- induced tissue toxicity in a specific tissue?
• What are the risks of stem cell therapy; i.e. does stem cell therapy later induce cancer, teratoma’s or malformations?
In order to develop experimental protocols for the amelioration of radiotherapy-induced side effects by stem cell therapy a number of specific research questions need to be answered:
• What is (are) the optimal time-point(s) for stem cell therapy; one ore more treatments and when?
• What is the optimal number of stem cells to be transplanted; or optimal drug dose ("cocktail" of growth factors); optimum exposure to molecular/viral vectors
• What is the best routing; local administration of the cells/compound/drug or systemic administration (i.e. via IV injections)?
To successfully use stem cell therapy it is important to understand:
• The nature and qualities of different types of stem cells,
• The mechanism by which stem cells differentiate into mature, functional cells and,
• Their capacity to repair damaged (irradiated) tissues/organs in a variety of experimental animal models.
Impact
Participating institutes have exchanged relevant protocols and several initiatives for future collaboration have been established. Research agreement holders are frequently consulted by the other participating institutes regarding protocols, methodology, training, fellowships etc.
Relevance
The CRP is very relevant to the Agency's Project and to Member States.