Developing new pain relief medications targeting specific receptors
Official title: Planning Study for the Development of Sigma 2 ligands as Analgesics
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10641500 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at natural substances from cyanobacteria to find new pain relief medications that work by targeting a specific receptor involved in managing pain, and it's designed for people who suffer from chronic pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | September 11, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,510,066 |
| NIH project number | 1R61NS127271-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10641500 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic neuropathic pain who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain or those who do not have chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating new medications for chronic pain by exploring natural products derived from cyanobacteria. The team aims to target a specific receptor known as sigma 2/transmembrane protein 97 (σ-2/TMEM97), which has recently been identified as playing a role in pain modulation. By studying the effects of these natural products on pain receptors in laboratory settings, the researchers hope to develop effective analgesics. The project involves collaboration among scientists from various fields to ensure a comprehensive approach to drug development.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel pain relief medications that are more effective for patients suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar receptors for pain relief, indicating that this approach could be a viable path for developing new analgesics.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tidgewell, Kevin Joseph — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Tidgewell, Kevin Joseph
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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.