Investigating how extracellular RNAs can help identify patients at risk for chronic pain after acute pain episodes

A2CPS ExRNA Component

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-10900619

This study is looking at tiny molecules in your body fluids to see if they can help us understand and predict who might develop long-lasting pain after surgery or an injury, and it's for people who have recently experienced acute pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-10900619 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on extracellular RNAs (exRNAs) found in human biofluids and their potential role in mediating pain and serving as biomarkers for chronic pain risk. The project is part of a larger program that collects clinical data and biofluid samples from patients who have experienced acute pain due to surgery or musculoskeletal trauma. By analyzing these samples over time, researchers aim to identify biomarkers that indicate whether a patient is likely to develop chronic pain. The study involves collaboration among various investigators to ensure robust data collection and analysis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have recently undergone surgery or experienced musculoskeletal trauma and are experiencing acute pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have acute pain or have chronic pain without a recent acute episode may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better identification of patients at risk for chronic pain, allowing for earlier interventions and improved pain management strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for pain management, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.