Investigating how certain compounds affect back pain and disc degeneration
The role of physiologic and pathologic AGEs on RAGE signaling in IVD degeneration
This study is looking at how certain compounds in the body, called AGEs, might be linked to back pain by affecting the discs in your spine, especially for those who are older or have diabetes, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent or reduce this pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10896118 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of Advanced Glycation End-products (AGEs) and their interaction with the Receptor for Advanced Glycation Endproducts (RAGE) in the degeneration of intervertebral discs (IVD), which is a major cause of back pain. The study will explore how these compounds contribute to the biological and structural changes in the IVD, particularly in individuals with aging and diabetes. By examining the mechanisms of AGEs and RAGE signaling, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets to prevent or mitigate disc degeneration and associated pain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults experiencing chronic back pain, particularly those with a history of diabetes or aging-related conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with acute back injuries or those without any history of back pain or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate back pain and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from disc degeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting AGEs and RAGE signaling may have therapeutic potential, suggesting that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements in treating disc degeneration.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tang, Simon Yue-Cheong — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Tang, Simon Yue-Cheong
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.