How aging affects the body's ability to manage pain in osteoarthritis.

Age-related decline in endogenous pain modulation and its impact on osteoarthritis pain

NIH-funded research University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-11054598

This study looks at how getting older affects the way our bodies manage pain, especially for those with osteoarthritis, by comparing younger and older rats to find out how their brains handle pain differently, which could help improve pain relief for older adults with this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-11054598 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how aging impacts the body's natural pain modulation mechanisms, particularly in relation to osteoarthritis pain. It focuses on understanding the brain networks involved in pain inhibition and how these networks change with age. By studying both young and older rats, the research aims to uncover the links between dysfunctional pain modulation and chronic pain conditions, specifically osteoarthritis, which is common in older adults. The findings could lead to better pain management strategies for older patients suffering from osteoarthritis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing osteoarthritis pain.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have osteoarthritis may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management techniques for older adults suffering from osteoarthritis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding pain modulation in aging, suggesting that this research builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.