Investigating immune responses related to chronic pain after knee surgery

Administrative Supplement to U54 DA049115: Exploring Immune Transcriptome Signatures in the Development of Chronic Pain

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11128257

This study is looking at how certain genes in white blood cells might help us understand why some people feel chronic pain after knee replacement surgery, by comparing samples taken before and three months after the surgery from patients who do and don’t experience this pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11128257 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on analyzing the gene expression profiles of white blood cells from patients undergoing knee replacement surgery. By collecting samples before and three months after the surgery, researchers aim to identify immune signatures that may predict the development of chronic pain. The study compares the genetic data of individuals who experience chronic pain post-surgery with those who do not, providing insights into the biological mechanisms involved. This approach could help in understanding how the immune system contributes to pain outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals scheduled for knee replacement surgery who are willing to participate in blood sample collection before and after the procedure.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing knee replacement surgery or those with pre-existing chronic pain unrelated to the surgery may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better predictions and interventions for patients at risk of developing chronic pain after knee surgery.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using gene expression profiling to understand pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.