Investigating how gut bacteria affect pain in sickle cell disease
Sickle cell disease gut dysbiosis effects on CNS pain processing
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS DALLAS · NIH-11017731
This study is looking at how the health of gut bacteria might affect how people with sickle cell disease feel and process pain, with the goal of finding new ways to help manage that pain better.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS DALLAS (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (RICHARDSON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11017731 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between gut microbiome health and pain processing in patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). It aims to understand how changes in gut bacteria may influence brain activity related to pain, particularly in the central nucleus of the amygdala, which is involved in pain perception and emotional responses. By studying both human patients and mouse models, the research seeks to identify specific factors that exacerbate pain in SCD and to develop new therapeutic strategies that could improve pain management. The approach includes manipulating gut microbiome composition to observe its effects on pain-related behaviors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with sickle cell disease and experience acute or chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have sickle cell disease or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments for managing pain in sickle cell disease, reducing reliance on opioids.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking gut microbiome health to pain processing in SCD is relatively novel, there is emerging evidence suggesting that gut health can influence pain perception in other conditions.
Where this research is happening
RICHARDSON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS DALLAS — RICHARDSON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SADLER, KATELYN — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS DALLAS
- Study coordinator: SADLER, KATELYN
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.