Exploring how CBD can help manage pain more effectively

Mechanism and optimization of CBD-mediated analgesic effects (Diversity Supplement)

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-10915759

This study is looking at how well CBD, a non-intoxicating part of cannabis, can help relieve pain and whether tweaking a certain protein in the body can make it work even better, with the goal of finding new ways to manage pain for people like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10915759 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the pain-relieving effects of cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of cannabis, and how its effectiveness can be enhanced. The study aims to understand the neural mechanisms involved in CBD's analgesic properties, particularly focusing on its interaction with specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord. By manipulating the activity of a protein called KCC2, researchers hope to determine if this can improve the pain-relieving effects of CBD. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective pain management strategies using CBD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who suffer from chronic pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management options for patients using CBD.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using cannabinoids for pain management, but this specific approach is novel and aims to optimize CBD's effects.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 2026-06-09 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.