Exploring the role of the endocannabinoid system in treating headaches
Official title: Targeting the Endocannabinoid System for Headache Intervention
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-11004080 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with a system in our body called the endocannabinoid system might cause headaches, and it aims to find new ways to help people with headaches by testing different treatments in rats to see how they work and if men and women respond differently.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $547,509 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126752-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004080 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic headaches or migraines, particularly those who have not found relief with current treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with headaches caused by structural abnormalities or other non-biological factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system contributes to headache disorders, aiming to develop new therapeutic strategies. By using rat models, the study will explore the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in headaches and how enhancing endocannabinoid tone could provide better treatment options. The research will focus on understanding the effects of specific compounds on headache symptoms and the potential for sex differences in response to treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective headache treatments that address the underlying causes rather than just alleviating symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: While there is emerging evidence supporting the role of the endocannabinoid system in headache management, this specific approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Milnes, Tally Marie — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Milnes, Tally Marie
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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.