Investigating brain features that predict chronic pain risk and resilience
Official title: Brain Structural Biomarkers of Risk and Resilience to Pain Chronification
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10993120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain might help us understand who is more likely to develop long-lasting pain after having short-term pain, and it's for people dealing with sub-acute low back pain to help find better ways to support them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $442,228 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126451-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing sub-acute low back pain, particularly those between 6 to 12 weeks post-injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of acute pain or those with chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the structural properties of specific brain regions, particularly the limbic system, can predict whether individuals will develop chronic pain after experiencing acute pain. By using advanced brain imaging techniques, the study aims to identify biomarkers that indicate vulnerability or resilience to chronic pain. Patients with sub-acute low back pain will be monitored to see how their brain structure relates to their pain outcomes over time. The goal is to improve early identification and treatment strategies for those at risk of chronic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for individuals at risk of developing chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been limited research in this area, some studies have shown promising results in identifying brain biomarkers related to pain resilience.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Geha, Paul — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Geha, Paul
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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.