How the body regulates inflammation through pain signaling

Regulation of inflammation by nociception

NIH-funded research Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10844800

This study is looking at how the nervous and immune systems work together to keep our skin healthy and reduce inflammation, which could help find new ways to treat pain and swelling for people dealing with these issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionScripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10844800 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the complex interactions between the nervous and immune systems in maintaining skin health and preventing excessive inflammation. It focuses on a specific neuro-immune circuit involving sensory neurons and regulatory T cells, which communicate through the production of enkephalins, natural pain-relieving substances. By understanding how these signals work, the research aims to identify new ways to manage inflammation and pain responses in the body. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to innovative treatments for conditions related to pain and inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic pain or inflammation-related conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those not experiencing inflammation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve pain management and reduce inflammation for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neuro-immune interactions, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.