Exploring a new target for treating neuropathic pain
Official title: Validation of a new large-pore channel as a novel target for neuropathic pain
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10774593 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with chronic nerve pain by exploring how certain immune cells in the spinal cord can make pain worse, and it aims to find safer treatments that don’t use opioids, so patients might have the chance to try out these new options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 25, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,039,202 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS134549-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10774593 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from chronic neuropathic pain, particularly those who have not found relief with current pain management options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not experience neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel therapeutic target for neuropathic pain, a chronic condition affecting millions of Americans. The study focuses on understanding how microglia, a type of immune cell in the spinal cord, contribute to pain after nerve injury. By blocking the excessive release of ATP, a molecule that activates these cells, the research aims to develop safer pain management strategies that do not rely on opioids. Patients may be involved in trials assessing new treatments that could alleviate their chronic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for neuropathic pain, reducing reliance on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting microglial activation for pain management, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Qiu, Zhaozhu — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Qiu, Zhaozhu
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Glial-nerve conversations in neuropathic pain and diabetes
This grant looks at how supportive brain and nerve cells communicate with pain-sensing neurons to understand and reduce chronic nerve pain in people.
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Parmodulins with Low Abuse Potential for Neuropathic Pain
A new class of pain medicines called parmodulins is being studied to help people with nerve-pain pain without high abuse risk.
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.