Investigating how genetic factors influence chronic low back pain differences among racial groups
Official title: Epigenomic and Gene Expression Signatures of Racial Differences in Chronic Low Back Pain
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10974708 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how genetic changes and stress hormones might affect chronic low back pain differently in Black and white people, and it aims to help us understand how resilience can influence pain experiences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $62,942 |
| NIH project number | 3R01AR079178-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974708 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic low back pain, particularly those from Black and white racial backgrounds.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic low back pain or those outside the specified racial groups may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between genetic modifications and chronic low back pain, particularly focusing on how these factors differ between Black and white individuals. The study aims to understand how resilience impacts pain outcomes by examining DNA methylation and cortisol levels in patients. By analyzing these biological markers, the research seeks to identify potential disparities in pain experiences and outcomes among different racial groups. This project also supports the training of a doctoral student dedicated to addressing health disparities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies tailored to the genetic and resilience profiles of different racial groups.
How similar studies have gone: While research on chronic pain and genetic factors is ongoing, this specific focus on racial differences and resilience is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aroke, Edwin Ngomueh — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Aroke, Edwin Ngomueh
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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.