Investigating how LRRC55 affects pain sensation
Official title: Exploring the unknown function of LRRC55 in pain
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10841957 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called LRRC55 to see how it affects pain, especially when you feel pressure or touch, with the hope of finding new, safer treatments for pain that don’t rely on opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $444,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS136065-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10841957 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing mechanical pain, particularly those who have not found relief with traditional pain medications.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pain conditions that do not involve mechanical pain or those who are not responsive to ion channel-targeted therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific protein, LRRC55, in pain sensation, particularly mechanical pain. By studying how LRRC55 interacts with ion channels in nerve cells, researchers aim to identify new, non-opioid treatments for pain management. The approach involves examining the effects of LRRC55 on pain pathways in animal models, which could lead to targeted therapies that minimize side effects. The ultimate goal is to develop safer alternatives to opioid analgesics for patients suffering from pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective treatments for pain that do not rely on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting ion channels for pain management, suggesting that this approach could be a viable path forward.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yang, Huanghe — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Yang, Huanghe
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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.