Exploring how genetics and personal experiences link substance use disorders with chronic pain
Official title: Using genomics and extensive phenotyping to dissect the relationships between substance use disorders and chronic pain
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10922822 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how chronic pain and substance use issues, like problems with alcohol or cannabis, are connected, and it involves patients helping to gather health information to find better ways to treat both conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $155,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03DA059747-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10922822 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic pain who also have a history of substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic pain or substance use disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex relationship between chronic pain and substance use disorders (SUDs) such as alcohol, tobacco, and cannabis. By analyzing extensive genomic and phenotypic data from diverse populations, the study aims to uncover the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to both chronic pain and SUDs. Patients will be involved in the curation of electronic health records to better define chronic pain and its connections to these disorders. The goal is to enhance understanding of how these conditions interact and potentially inform better treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for individuals suffering from both chronic pain and substance use disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic links between chronic pain and substance use disorders, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Emma Covey — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Emma Covey
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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.