How the calcium sensor STIM2 in the spinal cord affects chronic itch
Role of stromal interaction molecule 2 in chronic itch
This work looks at whether the protein STIM2 in spinal cord nerve cells and support cells causes long-lasting itch and could point to new treatments for people with chronic itching.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11319052 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The team uses laboratory models to remove or block STIM2 in specific spinal cord nerve cells and then measures how much animals scratch after exposure to itch-causing chemicals. They compare effects of blocking STIM proteins delivered into the spine versus into the skin, and they study both neurons and nearby support cells called astrocytes. Their approach combines genetic mouse models, targeted drug delivery, and behavioral and molecular tests to trace the signaling pathways that drive chronic itch. Results aim to show whether targeting STIM2 can reduce persistent itch signals in the spinal cord.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with ongoing chronic itch conditions, such as long-standing eczema, contact dermatitis, or unexplained chronic pruritus, could be future candidates for treatments informed by this research.
Not a fit: Individuals with short-term (acute) itch, itch caused by clearly identified systemic illnesses unrelated to spinal signaling, or those seeking immediate relief are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify STIM2 as a new target that leads to treatments reducing chronic, hard-to-treat itch.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies, including the investigators' pilot data, showed that deleting STIM2 reduced scratching in mice, but this approach remains at the preclinical stage and has not yet been proven in people.
Where this research is happening
Newark, UNITED STATES
- Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences — Newark, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hu, Huijuan — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Hu, Huijuan
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.