Astrocytes influence pain pathways in the spinal cord
Official title: Astrocytes mediate priming of spinal nociceptive circuits
Funded at University of Cincinnati · NIH-11003965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells called astrocytes influence pain after surgery in newborns, with the goal of finding new ways to help manage pain for those who have had medical procedures.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Cincinnati NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project start | January 11, 2024 |
| Project end | January 10, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,460 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS135754-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003965 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include children and adults who have undergone invasive surgical procedures during infancy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced any surgical procedures or those with chronic pain from non-surgical causes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how astrocytes, a type of brain cell, affect pain pathways in the spinal cord, particularly after surgical procedures in newborns. It focuses on understanding how these cells can change the way pain signals are processed, potentially leading to increased pain sensitivity later in life. By examining the communication between astrocytes and nerve cells, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that contribute to pain amplification. The findings could help identify new treatment targets for managing pain in individuals who have undergone invasive medical procedures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that reduce chronic pain in patients who have experienced early life surgeries.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in pain modulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yoo, Judy Joonhi — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Yoo, Judy Joonhi
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.