Investigating how hemopexin affects pelvic pain in urologic conditions

Role of hemopexin in the development of urologicchronic pelvic pain syndrome

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11069005

This study is looking at how a protein called hemopexin and stress might affect pelvic pain in people with chronic pelvic pain syndrome, and it aims to find new ways to help manage this condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11069005 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of hemopexin, a protein with anti-inflammatory properties, in the development of urologic chronic pelvic pain syndrome (UCPPS). It aims to explore how chronic stress and hemopexin levels influence pelvic pain and bladder sensitivity. The study will involve examining the relationship between stress exposure and heme concentration, as well as assessing changes in pain processing in specific brain regions using advanced imaging techniques. By studying both animal models and the underlying biological mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for managing UCPPS.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing chronic pelvic pain or lower urinary tract symptoms, particularly those with a history of stress-related symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with acute pelvic pain or those not experiencing chronic symptoms may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for patients suffering from chronic pelvic pain, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammatory markers in chronic pain conditions, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.