Investigating how stress affects pain sensitivity in women
A prolactin-mediated neuroendocrine link between stress-induced latent sensitization and female-selective pain
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA · NIH-10896994
This study is looking at how stress might make chronic pain conditions, like fibromyalgia and migraines, worse in women, using a rodent model to understand the biological reasons behind this, with hopes of finding better ways to manage pain caused by stress.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (TUCSON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10896994 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between stress and chronic pain conditions that predominantly affect women, such as fibromyalgia and migraines. It uses a rodent model to simulate how repeated stress can lead to increased pain sensitivity, a phenomenon known as latent sensitization. By examining the role of prolactin and its receptors in this process, the study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that contribute to functional pain syndromes. The findings could help identify new treatment strategies for managing pain triggered by stress.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women experiencing chronic pain conditions without identifiable injuries, particularly those who report stress as a significant trigger.
Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain due to identifiable injuries or conditions unrelated to stress may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for women suffering from chronic pain conditions linked to stress.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neuroendocrine mechanisms of pain, but this specific approach focusing on stress and prolactin in female patients is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
TUCSON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA — TUCSON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PORRECA, FRANK — UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONA
- Study coordinator: PORRECA, FRANK
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 below.