Developing a new treatment for nerve pain without opioids

Optimization of an HCN1-Selective Inverse Agonist for the Treatment of Peripheral Neuropathic Pain

NIH-funded research Akelos INC. · NIH-10709890

This study is looking for a new medicine to help adults with chronic nerve pain feel better, using a special approach that targets overactive nerve channels without the risks of opioids, so patients can find relief and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAkelos INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10709890 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating a new medication to treat peripheral neuropathic pain, which affects many adults suffering from chronic pain. The approach involves optimizing a specific compound that targets hyperactive nerve channels, aiming to provide relief without the risks associated with opioid medications. By screening a library of compounds, the researchers hope to identify a potent and selective treatment that can alleviate pain while minimizing side effects. This innovative strategy seeks to improve the quality of life for patients dealing with chronic nerve pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who suffer from peripheral neuropathic pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience neuropathic pain or those who are not adults may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer, non-opioid alternative for managing chronic nerve pain.

How similar studies have performed: Similar research has shown promise in developing non-opioid treatments for pain management, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.