Finding new compounds to block pain-sensing neurons
Official title: Development of a phenotypic screening assay for novel compounds that inhibit peripheral pain-sensing neurons
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10811697 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new ways to find natural compounds that can help relieve pain by specifically targeting the nerves that sense pain, without messing with other nerves, to create safer pain medications for people dealing with different types of pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | March 17, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $414,347 |
| NIH project number | 5R61AT012117-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10811697 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing chronic pain conditions who may benefit from new analgesic treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not respond to traditional pain management strategies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a new method to identify compounds that can specifically inhibit pain-sensing neurons, known as nociceptors, without affecting other sensory or motor neurons. The approach involves creating an in vitro assay that uses engineered cells to detect nociceptor activity, allowing researchers to screen natural product libraries for potential pain-relieving compounds. By focusing on compounds that do not enter the central nervous system, the goal is to create safer and more effective analgesics for patients suffering from various pain conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer pain medications that specifically target pain without affecting other sensory functions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in developing targeted pain therapies, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clarke, William P — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Clarke, William P
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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.