Investigating how brain pathways affect the transition from acute to chronic pain.

Arlene George F32

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. · NIH-10993581

This study is looking at how the brain changes when pain goes from being short-term to long-lasting, with the hope of finding better ways to help people who suffer from chronic pain.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorRUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10993581 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms in the brain that contribute to the transition from acute pain to chronic pain, which affects over 50 million Americans. It examines the role of the striatum, a brain region involved in movement and pain processing, and how its interactions with other brain areas influence pain perception and behavior. By studying these pathways, the research aims to identify potential new therapeutic targets for chronic pain management. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for chronic pain conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain lasting more than three months.

Not a fit: Patients with acute pain that has not transitioned to chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing chronic pain, improving quality of life for millions of patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain mechanisms related to pain, but this specific approach to studying the transition from acute to chronic pain is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.