How mitochondria affect pain sensitivity and chronic pain development

Mitochondrial Regulation of Nociceptor Function

NIH-funded research University of New England · NIH-11015773

This study is looking at how tiny parts of our cells called mitochondria affect pain-sensing nerves and how this might help us understand why some people develop long-lasting pain after an injury, with the hope of finding better ways to treat pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New England NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Biddeford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015773 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of mitochondria in the function of pain-sensing neurons and how their regulation may influence the transition from acute to chronic pain. By examining the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved, the study aims to understand how mitochondrial dynamics can affect pain responses following injury. Patients may benefit from insights gained through experiments that explore the effects of mitochondrial function on pain sensitivity, potentially leading to new treatment options for managing pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing acute inflammatory pain or those at risk of developing chronic pain conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain conditions unrelated to mitochondrial dysfunction may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies for managing acute and chronic pain more effectively.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of mitochondrial function in pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Biddeford, 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 2026-06-15 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.