Use of semi-synthetic glycosaminoglycan ethers to protect against radiation induced proctitis in mice

Rectal bioaccumulation of semi-synthetic glycosaminoglycan ethers can be enhanced by using a thermoresponsive silk-elastinlike protein polymer. This enhanced accumulation has been used in a prophylactic approach to protect against radiation induced proctitis in mice. The mechanisms of this enhanced protection are explored with RNA sequencing of rectal tissues collected 3-days following drug-polymer protection and irradiation with 37 Gys to the lower abdominal region.