Investigating how nerve growth factors affect chronic pelvic pain in women and adolescents with endometriosis
Official title: The role of neurotrophins in chronic pelvic pain and central sensitization among adolescents and women with endometriosis
Funded at Merrimack College · NIH-11087983 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain nerve growth factors might be linked to chronic pelvic pain in women and teens with endometriosis, especially for those who still feel pain after surgery, to help find new ways to treat their discomfort.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Merrimack College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (North Andover, United States) |
| Project start | May 10, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $261,098 |
| NIH project number | 7R21HD107515-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11087983 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents and women diagnosed with endometriosis who experience chronic pelvic pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have endometriosis or those whose pelvic pain is not chronic may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between nerve growth factors and chronic pelvic pain in women and adolescents suffering from endometriosis. It aims to understand how changes in the central nervous system may amplify pain sensations, particularly in those who experience treatment-resistant pain after surgery. By examining the levels of specific neurotrophins in the peritoneal cavity, the study seeks to uncover potential mechanisms behind chronic pain and identify new therapeutic targets. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate their pain levels and the presence of neurotrophins.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for women and adolescents with endometriosis, particularly those who do not respond to current treatments.
How similar studies have gone: While there is limited research on neurotrophins in endometriosis-related pain, studies in other chronic pain conditions suggest that investigating these factors could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Merrimack College
North Andover, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shafrir, Amy Lee — Merrimack College
- Study coordinator: Shafrir, Amy Lee
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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.