Finding New Ways to Relieve Pain Without Addiction
Identification of allosteric molecules for DOR-KOR heteromer-mediated peripheral analgesia
This work looks for new pain relief medicines that target specific pain-sensing nerves in the body, aiming to avoid the dangerous side effects of current opioid drugs.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11137130 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Current pain medications often target the brain, leading to serious side effects like breathing problems and addiction, which has fueled the opioid crisis. This project explores a different approach by focusing on pain-sensing nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. We are looking for new drug-like molecules that can activate a specific combination of receptors, called DOR-KOR heteromers, found on these peripheral pain nerves. The goal is to develop pain relievers that work locally where pain starts, offering strong relief without affecting the brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for anyone interested in the future development of non-addictive pain treatments, particularly those suffering from nociceptive pain.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate pain relief or direct participation in a clinical trial would not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, safer pain medications that provide strong relief without the risk of addiction or severe side effects associated with current opioid drugs.
How similar studies have performed: The concept of targeting peripheral pain pathways is supported by the effectiveness of local anesthetics, but this specific approach using DOR-KOR heteromers and interprotomer allosterism is novel.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- 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
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.