How opioids affect pain and blood flow during exercise in patients with artery disease

Opioid-induced potentiation of the exercise pressor reflex via acid-sensing ion channels (ASIC3) in health and simulated peripheral artery disease

NIH-funded research Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-10815784

This study looks at how opioids affect pain and blood flow during exercise for people with peripheral artery disease, aiming to find better ways to manage pain and help them exercise more comfortably.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hershey, United States)
Project IDNIH-10815784 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how opioids influence the body's response to pain and blood flow during exercise, particularly in individuals with peripheral artery disease. It focuses on the role of acid-sensing ion channels in the perception of pain and how these channels interact with opioids under conditions of tissue acidosis. By studying the effects of specific opioid peptides on pain and blood pressure responses, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could improve pain management and exercise tolerance in affected patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from peripheral artery disease who experience pain during physical activity.

Not a fit: Patients without peripheral artery disease or those not experiencing exercise-induced pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients with peripheral artery disease, enhancing their ability to exercise and improve their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of opioids and acid-sensing ion channels in pain perception, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Hershey, 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.