Investigating omega-3 fatty acids for treating TMD pain.
Official title: PUFA metabolism for prevention and treatment of TMD pain: an interdisciplinary, translational approach.
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10820840 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how omega-3 fatty acids might help reduce pain from jaw issues like temporomandibular disorder (TMD), and it’s for people who experience this kind of pain to help find new, gentle treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | September 14, 2023 |
| Project end | September 13, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $314,704 |
| NIH project number | 1R34DE033563-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10820840 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from temporomandibular disorder (TMD) and related pain conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have TMD or related pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on how omega-3 dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) can help manage and prevent pain associated with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). The study aims to explore the anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of these fatty acids, particularly through their derivatives known as specialized proresolving lipid mediators. By analyzing patient data and utilizing advanced imaging and machine learning techniques, the research seeks to develop new, non-invasive treatment options for TMD and its related conditions. Patients may be involved in the research to help identify effective interventions based on their experiences and outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative, non-invasive treatments for managing TMD pain and improving patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in using omega-3 fatty acids for pain management, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Slade, Gary Douglas — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Slade, Gary Douglas
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.