Investigating brain mechanisms of chronic low back pain using advanced imaging techniques
Neuroepigenetic mechanisms of chronic low back pain using histone deacetylases PET imaging
This study is looking at how specific proteins in the brain are linked to chronic low back pain by using special imaging to see how active these proteins are in people with and without pain, which could help us understand pain better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10857200 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how certain proteins in the brain, known as histone deacetylases (HDACs), are involved in chronic low back pain. By using a specialized imaging technique called PET imaging, researchers aim to visualize and measure the activity of these proteins in living patients. The study will involve comparing HDAC levels in individuals with chronic pain to those without, helping to uncover the biological processes that contribute to pain perception and management. This approach may lead to new insights into how chronic pain develops and persists, potentially guiding future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who experience chronic low back pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have chronic low back pain or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic low back pain by targeting the underlying biological mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain mechanisms related to pain using similar imaging techniques, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wey, Hsiao-Ying — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Wey, Hsiao-Ying
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 below.