Identifying brain markers that predict pain severity and duration

Validation of a novel cortical biomarker signature for pain

NIH-funded research University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10709408

This study is looking at how certain brain signals can help predict if someone might experience long-lasting pain, and it's for people who want to understand their pain better and find ways to prevent it from becoming chronic.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10709408 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a unique cortical biomarker signature that can predict how severe and long-lasting pain may be for individuals. By using advanced techniques like electroencephalography (EEG) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), the study aims to identify individuals at risk of developing chronic pain. Participants will undergo assessments to measure their brain activity and pain responses, which will help researchers validate the effectiveness of this biomarker in predicting pain outcomes. The goal is to enable early interventions that could prevent the transition to chronic pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who are at risk of developing chronic pain, particularly those experiencing acute pain conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain conditions that are already established may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more effective pain management strategies, reducing the risk of chronic pain and reliance on opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using biomarker signatures for predicting pain outcomes, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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.
Conditions Cancers
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.