Mesenchymal stem cell-derived HGF attenuates radiation-induced senescence in salivary glands via compensatory proliferation

Head and neck cancer accounts for more than 550 000 cases annually worldwide [1] of with 70% of patients receiving radiotherapy. A common severe side effect of radiotherapy is hyposalivation and a consequent dry mouth sensation (xerostomia) which is often very difficult to treat [2]. The major cause of this side effect is the often unavoidable exposure of the salivary glands (SG) to radiation due to their position relative to the tumor within the radiotherapy treatment plan.
Source: Radiotherapy and Oncology - Category: Radiology Authors: Tags: Original Article Source Type: research