Investigating how B lymphocytes affect pain after trauma
Official title: B Lymphocyte-Mediated Autoimmunity in Pain After Trauma
Funded at Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research · NIH-11082537 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called B lymphocytes might affect long-lasting pain and recovery after injuries like broken bones, and it aims to find ways to help people feel better and heal faster.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Palo Alto, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2020 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $505,706 |
| NIH project number | 4R01NS117340-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082537 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced trauma resulting in chronic pain, particularly those with autoimmune conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain not related to trauma or those without autoimmune responses may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of B lymphocytes, a type of immune cell, in contributing to chronic pain and disability following traumatic injuries. By using a well-established mouse model of limb fractures, the study aims to understand how B cell activation and the formation of autoantibodies influence pain and recovery outcomes. The research will also include studies on larger animals and eventually human trials to assess the effectiveness of immunomodulating therapies in reducing pain and improving recovery. The goal is to enhance recovery quality while minimizing chronic pain and related neuropsychiatric issues such as anxiety.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce chronic pain and improve recovery after traumatic injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the immune system's role in pain, making this approach both innovative and grounded in existing findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research
Palo Alto, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Clark, David J. — Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research
- Study coordinator: Clark, David J.
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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.