Identifying biomarkers to predict neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury

Discovery of Biomarker Signatures Prognostic for Neuropathic Pain after Acute Spinal Cord Injury

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON · NIH-10618735

This study is looking for clues in the blood of people with spinal cord injuries to see if they can predict who might experience nerve pain later on, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent that pain without using addictive medications.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10618735 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research aims to discover specific biomarkers that can predict whether individuals who have suffered a spinal cord injury (SCI) will develop neuropathic pain. By analyzing plasma samples from both SCI patients and healthy controls, the study will identify autoantibodies related to central nervous system antigens and their correlation with pain development. The research will utilize advanced techniques to create a biomarker signature that can help in predicting pain outcomes and potentially lead to new non-addictive treatments for prevention. The study will involve both banked samples and new samples collected from patients over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently suffered a spinal cord injury and are at risk of developing neuropathic pain.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a spinal cord injury or those who are not at risk for neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prediction and prevention of neuropathic pain in spinal cord injury patients, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for various pain conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.