Investigating how specific cell structures contribute to pain signaling
Official title: Role of TLR4-lipid rafts in nociception
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11012327 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain tiny structures in our cells, called lipid rafts, help send pain signals when we have inflammation or nerve injuries, and it's aimed at finding better ways to treat ongoing pain by understanding how different cells in our body work together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 17, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $702,049 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS132483-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012327 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain due to tissue or nerve injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain not related to nerve injury or tissue damage may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of specialized structures in cells, known as lipid rafts, in the process of pain signaling. It aims to explore how these lipid rafts, particularly those containing Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), change in response to tissue inflammation or nerve injury. By examining the interactions between different cell types involved in pain, such as neurons and immune cells, the study seeks to develop a comprehensive therapeutic strategy that targets multiple components of pain signaling simultaneously. This approach could lead to more effective treatments for persistent pain conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that more effectively manage chronic pain by targeting the underlying mechanisms of pain signaling.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar cellular mechanisms for pain management, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yaksh, Tony L. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Yaksh, Tony L.
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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.