# Novel Interventions for Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy

> **NIH NIH R21** · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · 2022 · $203,312

## Abstract

Project Abstract: Cancer treatment causes dose-limiting sensory symptoms and postural control dysfunction
(neuropathy) in up to 80% of breast cancer (BC) survivors, yet non-invasive treatments to restore motor control
remain underdeveloped. To restore mobility, interventions that address motor control, patient-reported
symptoms, and motivation to participate - in combination - are most likely to succeed. Thus, we propose to test
effect of partnered Adapted Argentine Tango (Tango) as an ideal intervention to simultaneously target restoration
of mobility and alleviation of symptoms through socially-motivated participation. Tango is moderate intensity
social dance, adapted for individuals with mobility deficits, that delivers sensorimotor and cardiovascular training
to rhythmic music. Tango promotes survivor participation through creative engagement and caregiver inclusion.
Previous research by the investigators established Tango as feasible for aging survivors (up to 82 years) to
engage in with high satisfaction and effects to neuropathy-related motor control deficits. Therefore, we propose
to conduct a Phase II, randomized clinical trial investigating Tango in 52 BC survivors with neuropathy.
Our overarching hypothesis is that Tango is associated with improved postural control (primary) as well as
improved balance, locomotor control and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) (secondary) relative to an evidence-
based home exercise program (HEX). Our rationale: Tango combines the effects of rhythmic auditory
stimulation on postural control regulation; physical activity practice on neuromotor control and cardiovascular
fitness; with social motivation to participate in treatment. Our long-term goal is to optimize prevention and
treatment of neuropathy utilizing non-invasive, patient-centered treatment to improve motor control more
definitively and more quickly for more people. Toward this goal, BC survivors with balance deficits associated
with neuropathy will be randomly assigned to Tango or HEX training, twice per week, for an 8 week period. Using
an intent-to-treat approach, this innovative pilot study will determine impact of Tango on (AIM1) 1) postural
control; 2) balance; 3) PROs including sensory symptoms, pain, fatigue, mood, quality of life, and intrinsic
motivation; as well as explore (AIM2) 4) locomotor control. These data will enable us to establish effect sizes
and estimate sample size for a future trial that will investigate relationship of neuromotor control and PROs to
structural changes in regions of the brain involved in motor control and planning, central dopamine regulation,
and systemic inflammation among individuals with neurotrauma.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10460950
- **Project number:** 5R21AG068831-02
- **Recipient organization:** OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY
- **Principal Investigator:** Maryam B. Lustberg
- **Activity code:** R21 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2022
- **Award amount:** $203,312
- **Award type:** 5
- **Project period:** 2021-08-15 → 2024-04-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10460950

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10460950, Novel Interventions for Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy (5R21AG068831-02). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-22 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10460950. Licensed CC0.

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