Investigating how RNA regulation affects inflammation in nerve cells to treat neuropathic pain.
Official title: RNA regulation of inflammatory mediators in glial cells: a novel therapeutic target for neuropathic pain after nerve injury
Funded at Birmingham VA Medical Center · NIH-11003656 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules can help reduce inflammation in the spinal cord to ease chronic pain caused by nerve injuries, and it's aimed at finding new ways to help people who suffer from neuropathic pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Birmingham VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006244-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003656 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic neuropathic pain due to peripheral nerve injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neuropathic pain not related to nerve injuries or those with other underlying conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of RNA regulation in inflammatory responses within glial cells, which are critical in the development of neuropathic pain following nerve injuries. The study aims to explore how certain molecules can inhibit the activation of microglia, the immune cells in the spinal cord, which contribute to chronic pain by producing inflammatory cytokines. By developing small molecule inhibitors that target specific RNA-binding proteins, the research seeks to reduce inflammation and improve pain management for affected patients. The approach involves both laboratory experiments and potential clinical applications to assess the effectiveness of these inhibitors in alleviating neuropathic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for patients suffering from chronic neuropathic pain, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting inflammatory pathways for pain management, indicating potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Birmingham VA Medical Center
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: King, Peter H — Birmingham VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: King, Peter H
Related research
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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.