Chief Investigator:

Professor Cory Xian

Funding Amount:

$75,000

Recipient:

University of South Australia

Overview:

Whilst chemotherapy of major childhood cancers has a 75% cure rate, it causes chronic bone loss and higher fracture risks. Recently in rats treated with methotrexate (MTX, most commonly used in childhood oncology and bone marrow transplants), we observed more bone-resorptive cells engaging in bone resorption which is due to increased activation of transcription factor NF-kB signalling. Here we examine bone protective effects of a natural NF-kB inhibitor in our MTX model. This work will potentially lead to a preventative strategy for ensuring bone health for children during and after MTX chemo.