How specific nerve receptors cause chronic itching
Functional Analysis of Mrgpr Family in itch sensation
['FUNDING_R37'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11417028
Researchers want to find out how certain nerve receptors trigger long-term itching so people with persistent itch might get better treatment options.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11417028 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team studies a family of nerve receptors (Mrgpr) on sensory neurons that seem to send itch signals. They test how substances like bile acids, bilirubin, allergens, and some medicines activate these receptors using cell experiments and mouse models while comparing mouse receptors to human versions. They search for ways to block these receptors and reduce itching in lab models. The work may also use human receptor molecules or patient samples to link lab findings to real-world itch conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic, hard-to-treat itching—especially from liver disease (cholestasis), kidney disease, or medications—would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People whose itching is short-lived or is controlled well by antihistamines are less likely to benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that block itch receptors and reduce chronic or drug-induced itching.
How similar studies have performed: Prior lab work identified Mrgpr receptors and connected the human receptor MRGPRX4 to bile-acid–related itch, but converting these discoveries into approved therapies has not yet occurred.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DONG, XINZHONG — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DONG, XINZHONG
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.