Investigating how a specific protein affects chronic pain in women
A Female Specific Role of RGSz1 in Modulation of Chronic Pain
['FUNDING_R01'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · NIH-10665571
This study is looking at how chronic pain affects women differently than men by using female mice to explore a specific protein in the brain that might change how pain is felt, with the hope of finding better treatments for women dealing with chronic pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10665571 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how chronic pain is experienced differently in women compared to men by studying female mice. It examines the role of a protein called RGSz1 in the brain region that processes pain signals, particularly in response to inflammation and nerve injury. By manipulating the levels of RGSz1, researchers aim to uncover how it influences pain sensitivity and the underlying cellular mechanisms involved. The findings could lead to better-targeted treatments for chronic pain in women.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing chronic pain conditions, particularly those related to inflammation or nerve injury.
Not a fit: Patients who are male or do not have chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies specifically tailored for women suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding sex differences in pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZACHARIOU, VENETIA — BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS
- Study coordinator: ZACHARIOU, VENETIA
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.