Exploring a new target for pain relief in the spine
Validation of Spinal Neurotensin Receptor 2 as an Analgesic Target
This study is looking at a new way to help people with severe nerve pain, especially those with spinal cord injuries, by testing a special substance from snail venom that might relieve pain without the harsh side effects of regular painkillers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10757871 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of neurotensin receptor 2 (NTSR2) as a new target for pain relief in patients suffering from severe neuropathic pain, particularly those with spinal cord injuries. The approach involves administering a peptide derived from snail venom, known as Contulakin-G (CGX), which has shown preliminary effectiveness in alleviating pain without the severe side effects associated with traditional opioids. The study aims to validate the analgesic effects of CGX through mechanistic studies and clinical trials, focusing on its ability to inhibit pain pathways in the spinal cord. If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer, non-opioid pain management therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing severe neuropathic pain, particularly those with spinal cord injuries or those who have not responded well to traditional pain management therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with pain conditions that do not involve spinal mechanisms or those who are not candidates for spinal interventions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective, and safer pain relief option for patients suffering from severe neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel analgesic target.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Patwardhan, Amol M — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Patwardhan, Amol M
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 below.