Exploring gene therapy for treating low back pain caused by spinal disc degeneration
Official title: Unravelling the role of gene therapy on spinal disc mediated low back pain
Funded at The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria · NIH-10947084 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how gene therapy might help people with low back pain caused by worn-out spinal discs, especially for adults in Nigeria and nearby areas, by exploring how certain tiny molecules can affect the health of these discs and potentially lead to new ways to relieve pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Akure, Nigeria) |
| Project start | September 11, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $95,684 |
| NIH project number | 1K43TW012780-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10947084 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old suffering from low back pain due to intervertebral disc degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low back pain not related to intervertebral disc degeneration or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gene therapy in addressing low back pain (LBP) resulting from intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD), a condition that significantly affects adults, particularly in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. The study focuses on understanding how specific microRNAs can influence cell death processes that contribute to the deterioration of spinal discs. Using rat models that mimic human disc structure, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms by which gene therapy can potentially alter the progression of IVDD and alleviate associated pain. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research, which could lead to innovative treatment options for chronic low back pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new gene therapy approaches to effectively treat low back pain and improve the quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using gene therapy for IVDD is novel, previous studies have shown promise in using microRNAs for various therapeutic interventions.
Where this research is happening
-
The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
Akure, Nigeria Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ogunlade, Babatunde — The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria
- Study coordinator: Ogunlade, Babatunde
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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.