Investigating how a protein affects low back pain after disc injury
Official title: The Role of VEGF in the Development of Low Back Pain Following IVD Injury
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10833672 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called VEGF might play a role in causing low back pain after a disc injury, and it aims to find new ways to help people manage their pain better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $199,102 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AR081517-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10833672 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing low back pain, particularly those with a history of intervertebral disc injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with low back pain not related to intervertebral disc issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between a specific protein, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), and the development of low back pain following injury to the intervertebral disc (IVD). By studying how VEGF influences nerve growth and inflammation in the IVD, the research aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that lead to chronic low back pain. The approach includes both animal models and human tissue studies to provide a comprehensive understanding of the condition. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing low back pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate or prevent chronic low back pain for many patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of nerve growth factors in pain mechanisms, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tang, Simon Yue-Cheong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Tang, Simon Yue-Cheong
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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.