Inhibiting a specific enzyme to treat chronic bladder pain

PNPase inhibition as an effective treatment for chronic bladder pain

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH · NIH-10580923

This study is looking at how blocking a specific enzyme might help relieve chronic bladder pain for people with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, especially since stress can make the pain worse.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGH AT PITTSBURGH (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PITTSBURGH, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10580923 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of inhibiting PNPase, an enzyme, as a treatment for chronic bladder pain, specifically interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind this painful condition, which is often exacerbated by psychological and oxidative stress. By exploring how chronic stress affects pain perception and bladder function, the researchers hope to identify new therapeutic targets that could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from this debilitating condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome who experience chronic pain and urinary frequency.

Not a fit: Patients with bladder pain caused by identifiable infections or structural abnormalities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new and effective treatment option for patients suffering from chronic bladder pain.

How similar studies have performed: While chronic bladder pain is a challenging area with limited effective treatments, this approach is novel and aims to explore untested mechanisms in pain management.

Where this research is happening

PITTSBURGH, 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 →

Conditions: Acute Disease, acute disease/disorder, acute disorder, Chronic Disease

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.