Northwell Health's Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research has been awarded a five-year, $2.9 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to investigate the potential of human ghrelin as a medical countermeasure against radiation-induced gastrointestinal syndrome (GI-ARS). The research will explore ghrelin's protective properties in shielding the intestines from radiation damage, potentially offering a new therapeutic avenue for this severe condition.
The study, led by Dr. Ping Wang, chief scientific officer and senior vice president at the Feinstein Institutes, along with associate professors Dr. Max Brenner and Dr. Asha Jacob Varghese, will delve into how ghrelin, often referred to as the "hunger hormone," mitigates radiation-induced intestinal injury. Previous studies by the team have indicated that ghrelin administration can decrease intestinal damage and improve survival rates following radiation exposure.
Ghrelin's Mechanism of Action
The new research aims to elucidate how ghrelin, which primarily influences the brain, can aid in the recovery of intestinal stem cells through the vagus nerve. This understanding could provide critical insights into the development of effective treatments for GI-ARS, a condition with limited therapeutic options.
The Need for GI-ARS Countermeasures
Nuclear accidents, acts of terrorism, and potential warfare scenarios pose a significant threat of radiation exposure to civilian populations. High doses of radiation can lead to GI-ARS, a severe condition characterized by damage to the intestinal lining, infections, and potentially death. Currently, there are no FDA-approved treatments specifically for GI-ARS, highlighting the urgent need for effective countermeasures.
Ghrelin: A Promising Candidate
"We are incredibly grateful to the NIH for this funding, which will allow us to explore the potential of ghrelin as a life-saving treatment for GI-ARS," said Dr. Wang. "Human ghrelin has a positive safety record so far and is easy to produce, making it a strong contender for widespread use in emergencies. We're hopeful this research will eventually result in a real solution for protecting people from radiation exposure."
Ghrelin, produced mainly by the stomach and also by the small intestine, brain, and pancreas, is known for stimulating appetite. However, it also affects gastric motility and acid secretion, with broader implications for sleep and mood. Its potential to protect against radiation-induced intestinal damage makes it a promising candidate for GI-ARS treatment.
Collaborative Effort
The Feinstein Institutes' team, including Kevin Tracey, president and CEO, is working collaboratively on this project. The research underscores the Feinstein Institutes' commitment to developing innovative solutions for critical medical needs.
"Radiation sickness, caused from nuclear accidents or from a deliberate attack, is not effectively treatable," said Dr. Tracey. "With this research support, we will investigate whether ghrelin can mitigate the organ injury and other complications in this condition as the basis to define new therapeutic pathways."
