Developing new pain medications for chronic pain relief

Advancing precision pain medicines to the clinic

NIH-funded research Navega Therapeutics, INC. · NIH-10822921

This study is working on new pain medications that won't be addictive, focusing on a specific part of the body that helps us feel pain, to help people, especially older adults, find relief from chronic pain without the risks of traditional opioids.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNavega Therapeutics, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Diego, United States)
Project IDNIH-10822921 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating non-addictive pain medications specifically targeting a sodium channel known as NaV1.7, which plays a crucial role in pain sensation. The study aims to develop epigenetic modulators that can inhibit NaV1.7 to provide effective pain relief without the risks associated with opioids. By addressing the urgent need for alternative analgesics, the research seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from chronic pain, particularly among the elderly population. Patients will be evaluated for their eligibility based on their pain conditions and genetic factors related to NaV1.7.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing chronic pain conditions, particularly those with genetic factors related to NaV1.7.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or have conditions unrelated to NaV1.7 may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer, non-addictive pain relief options for chronic pain sufferers.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting NaV1.7 for pain management, indicating that this approach could be a significant advancement in pain treatment.

Where this research is happening

San Diego, 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 2026-06-13 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.