Exploring peptides that target nicotinic acetylcholine receptors for pain relief and neurological research

Development and Application of Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptor Targeted Peptides for Biomedical Research

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10766116

This study is exploring how special proteins from marine snail venom can help us understand and potentially improve treatments for conditions like chronic pain and movement disorders by targeting specific receptors in the brain that affect mood and pain.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10766116 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs), which play a crucial role in the central nervous system and are involved in various functions such as mood regulation and pain perception. The team is developing peptides derived from marine snail venoms that specifically target different nAChR subtypes, aiming to understand their mechanisms and potential therapeutic applications. By studying these receptors at both the cellular and system levels, the research seeks to uncover new ways to treat conditions like neuropathic pain and movement disorders. Patients may benefit from innovative treatments that arise from this work, particularly those suffering from chronic pain or neurological issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from neuropathic pain or movement disorders such as Parkinson's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those not affected by neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for chronic pain and movement disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results using similar approaches to target nAChRs for pain management and neurological conditions.

Where this research is happening

SALT LAKE CITY, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.