Lay summary
Oral mucositis, painful mouth ulcers caused by cancer treatment, can make eating, speaking, and continuing therapy extremely difficult. Current treatments often provide only short-term relief or are uncomfortable to use. This project aims to develop a gentle, natural gel that can be sprayed inside the mouth to reduce inflammation and support healing. The key ingredient is Green-Lipped Mussel Oil (GLMO), a New Zealand marine product known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Our early laboratory studies show that GLMO can reduce inflammatory signals without harming oral cells. We will combine GLMO with safe, food-grade ingredients to create a gel that adheres well to the mouth and slowly releases its benefits. The formulation will be tested using oral cell models and an animal model of mucositis to assess safety and effectiveness. If successful, this commercialisable gel could improve comfort, reduce treatment interruptions, and enhance quality of life for patients undergoing cancer therapy.