Investigating how pain affects impulsivity in rats
Official title: Pain-induced impulsivity in rats and its mechanisms
Funded at Western University of Health Sciences · NIH-10359932 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how long-term pain affects decision-making and impulsive behavior in rats, which could help us understand similar issues in people dealing with chronic pain and related mental health challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Western University of Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pomona, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R15DA055202-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10359932 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain conditions that may also involve impulsivity or substance use disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic pain or related psychiatric conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between pain and impulsivity using rat models. It focuses on understanding how chronic pain influences decision-making and impulsive behaviors, which are often linked to psychiatric conditions and substance use disorders. The study employs a delay discounting task to assess these cognitive components in both male and female rats, particularly in the context of pain induced by inflammation. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to shed light on the complexities of pain and its broader implications for mental health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from chronic pain and related psychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown success in using rodent models to study the cognitive aspects of pain, indicating that this approach is promising and builds on established methodologies.
Where this research is happening
-
Western University of Health Sciences
Pomona, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nazarian, Arbi — Western University of Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Nazarian, Arbi
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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.