Finding plant-based compounds to relieve nerve pain
Identification of botanical hHv1 channel blockers as analgesics for neuropathic pain
This study is looking at how certain plant extracts might help block a channel in brain cells that causes nerve pain, with the hope of finding new and better ways to relieve pain for people who struggle with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11097678 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how certain plant extracts can block a specific channel in brain cells that contributes to nerve pain. By screening various botanical compounds, the team aims to identify new potential medications that could alleviate neuropathic pain, which affects millions of people and is often resistant to current treatments. The approach involves high-throughput screening to find effective small-molecule blockers that can reduce inflammation and pain signals in the nervous system. If successful, this could lead to safer and more effective pain relief options for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing neuropathic pain, particularly those who have not found relief with conventional analgesics.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not have neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide new, effective treatments for patients suffering from neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using botanical compounds for pain relief, suggesting that this approach could yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Ruiming — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Ruiming
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.