How the body's natural pain relief system affects pain management
Official title: Endogenous opioid regulation of locus coeruleus-mediated analgesia
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10990789 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the body's natural painkillers work in a part of the brain that helps control pain, with the hope of finding better ways to manage pain for people dealing with chronic pain after nerve injuries.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $497,550 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS135401-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10990789 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain, particularly those with neuropathic pain conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain that is not related to neuropathic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of endogenous opioids in regulating pain relief through the locus coeruleus, a key area in the brain involved in pain modulation. By examining how these natural pain-relieving substances interact with specific receptors in the brain, the study aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance pain management strategies. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze changes in opioid receptor activity following nerve injuries, which can lead to chronic pain. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to better manage pain through the body's own systems.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies that utilize the body's natural pain relief mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of endogenous opioids in pain modulation, suggesting that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccall, Jordan G. — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Mccall, Jordan G.
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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.