How immune responses to gut bacteria affect nerve healing and pain.
Official title: Roles of immunity to the microbiota in peripheral nerve regeneration and pain sensation.
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-11074592 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our immune system and gut bacteria work together to help heal damaged nerves and reduce pain, which could lead to new ways to help people with peripheral nerve injuries feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 12, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $108,000 |
| NIH project number | 5K22AI175478-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11074592 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from peripheral neuropathy or related nerve injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with nerve damage not related to peripheral neuropathy or those with other unrelated conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of immune responses to gut microbiota in the healing of peripheral nerves and the regulation of pain sensation. It focuses on how specific T cells that respond to gut bacteria can promote the regeneration of sensory neurons after injury. By studying the signaling pathways involved, particularly the role of Interleukin 17A, the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that could enhance nerve recovery and reduce pain. Patients with peripheral nerve injuries may benefit from insights gained through this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve nerve regeneration and reduce chronic pain for patients with peripheral neuropathy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune responses in nerve regeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Enamorado Escalona, Neris Michel — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Enamorado Escalona, Neris Michel
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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.