Investigating a new target for treating neuropathic pain
Official title: α9α10 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in neuropathic pain
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10980834 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific receptor in the body affects nerve pain, with the goal of creating new medications that can help relieve pain without the side effects of opioids, so that people suffering from neuropathic pain can find better treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $624,360 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS134647-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980834 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from neuropathic pain who have not found relief with current treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience neuropathic pain or have other types of pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptors in neuropathic pain, a condition that affects many adults. The researchers aim to develop new drugs that can effectively block these receptors to alleviate pain without the adverse effects associated with current opioid treatments. By using advanced techniques to screen for potential drug candidates, the study seeks to overcome existing challenges in creating effective pain relief options. Patients may benefit from innovative therapies that target this specific receptor pathway.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar receptors for pain management, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riley, Andrew — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Riley, Andrew
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Peripheral nerve stimulation for chronic neuropathic pain in a new mechanistic trial
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-
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-
High-frequency brain stimulation for trigeminal neuropathic pain
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-
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A new bioelectronic system uses a safe lithium source and AI-powered control to deliver targeted pain relief for neuropathic pain, aiming to spare motor function.
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Glial-nerve conversations in neuropathic pain and diabetes
This grant looks at how supportive brain and nerve cells communicate with pain-sensing neurons to understand and reduce chronic nerve pain in people.
-
Parmodulins with Low Abuse Potential for Neuropathic Pain
A new class of pain medicines called parmodulins is being studied to help people with nerve-pain pain without high abuse risk.
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.