Stem cell shot aims to cure radiation dry mouth

NCT ID NCT04489732

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This early study tested whether injecting a patient's own stem cells into the saliva gland could safely help dry mouth caused by radiation therapy for head and neck cancer. Six participants received one injection, with a second offered later. The main goal was to check for side effects like pain or serious complications.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

mesenchymal stromal cells (stem cells from the patient's own bone marrow)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a treatment for chronic dry mouth after radiation therapy.

What could go wrong

This is a very early, small pilot study with only 6 participants, so results may not apply widely. The main risk is pain or serious side effects from the injection.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

head and neck cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Wisconsin

    Madison, Wisconsin, 53705, United States