AFRRI Radiation Countermeasures
HJF helps scientists at AFRRI collaborate with private industry to develop effective prophylactics and therapeutics for radiation exposure.
We live in a world where terrorist threats are very real, so it is imperative that the military and the medical community be prepared for nuclear and radiation-based "dirty bombs." Researchers at the Armed Forces Radiobiology Research Institute (AFRRI), are using the program's unique expertise and capabilities to develop radiation countermeasures that are safe, effective, affordable and easily transported and stored.
New Therapies for Radiation Exposure
This work is critical because there are no FDA-approved radiation countermeasures suitable for use outside the clinic. Current treatment options include antibiotics and the off-label use of bone marrow growth factors. The growth factors must be administered under the supervision of a physician, so they may not be a viable treatment option in a mass-exposure scenario.
In a nuclear or radiologic attack, those exposed would suffer a range of acute and long-term health problems. If an attack occurs, transportation and medical care will not be available to most victims. AFRRI researchers, in collaboration with private industry and HJF, are intent on finding nontoxic treatment options for use in mass-casualty situations, where formal medical care may not be available.
Treating Acute Radiation Syndrome
Researchers in the AFRRI radiation countermeasures research program are seeking therapies for acute radiation syndrome (ARS), a potentially lethal condition resulting from high-dose radiation exposure. In studies headed by Mark Whitnall, Ph.D., program researchers are working with private industry partners to develop several promising countermeasures.
One candidate drug, now in Phase I clinical trials, has shown promising results with low toxicity, enhanced survival rates and increased resistance to infection. Other potential countermeasures are in preclinical trials, some showing significant survival benefit.