Investigating how RNA-protein interactions affect pain signaling
Official title: RNA-Protein Interactions in Nociception
Funded at University of New England · NIH-11065493 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our nerve cells affect pain signals, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage chronic pain better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of New England NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Biddeford, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $314,052 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS121533-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11065493 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults experiencing chronic pain or those transitioning from acute to chronic pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with pain conditions unrelated to the mechanisms being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specific RNA-binding proteins in the regulation of pain signals in sensory neurons. By studying how these proteins influence the translation of genes associated with pain, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for managing chronic pain. The approach involves using animal models to observe the effects of manipulating these proteins on pain transmission. If successful, this could lead to innovative treatments that help normalize pain thresholds and alleviate chronic pain conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that effectively manage or reverse chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in manipulating RNA-binding proteins to affect pain signaling, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of New England
Biddeford, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harrison, Benjamin — University of New England
- Study coordinator: Harrison, Benjamin
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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.