Damage to the oral mucosal epithelium in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy and radiation therapy remains a significant burden, resulting in pain and reduced quality of life to such a degree that in many cases it requires a pause or complete cessation of cancer treatment. With CIRM’s support, we have made significant progress in developing a novel therapeutic that activates the local stem cells to improve wound healing and regenerate healthy mucosa. Our approach incorporates a local, topical application, which would be completely transformational by reducing systemic side effects. The team conducted bioactivity assays and preclinical studies to demonstrate feasibility of this approach. Additionally, the team established a cell line to produce the protein of interest and established viability of larger scale production. The CIRM grants has enabled a significant advancement in the development of therapeutic program from bench to bedside.