Finding new non-opioid pain relief options

Discovery of PSD95 protein-protein interaction inhibitors as novel non-opioid analgesics

NIH-funded research Anagin · NIH-10802201

This study is looking at new ways to help people with chronic nerve pain by creating safer medications that don’t rely on opioids, focusing on how certain brain proteins work together to signal pain, and it hopes to offer better pain relief with fewer side effects.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionAnagin NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10802201 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing new medications to effectively treat chronic neuropathic pain without the risks associated with opioids. It investigates how certain proteins in the brain interact and contribute to pain signaling, specifically targeting the PSD95 protein complex. By using small molecules that disrupt these protein interactions, the research aims to create safer and more effective analgesics. Patients may benefit from these new treatments that could provide pain relief with fewer side effects compared to current options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic neuropathic pain who are seeking alternative pain management options.

Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not experience neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative non-opioid medications that effectively manage chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar protein interactions for pain relief, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.