Exploring how gut bacteria and inflammation affect pain in sickle cell disease
Investigating the role of the microbiome and inflammation in acute and chronic pain in patients with sickle cell disease
This study is looking at how the bacteria in your gut might affect pain levels in people with sickle cell disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage pain without relying on opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10462603 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the connection between the gut microbiome and inflammation in relation to both acute and chronic pain experienced by patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). It aims to identify factors beyond the typical causes of pain in SCD, focusing on how changes in gut bacteria may contribute to pain severity and frequency. By understanding these biological mechanisms, the research seeks to develop new, targeted therapies that could reduce reliance on opioids and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from this condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with sickle cell disease and experience acute or chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have sickle cell disease or those who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate pain in sickle cell disease without the side effects associated with opioid use.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that alterations in gut microbiota can influence pain in other chronic inflammatory conditions, suggesting a potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brandow, Amanda M — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Brandow, Amanda 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.