Investigating racial differences in chronic low back pain
Epigenomic and Gene Expression Signatures of Racial Differences in Chronic Low Back Pain
This study is looking into why Black individuals often have more intense and long-lasting lower back pain than others, and it hopes to find out how genetics and the environment play a role, so that better treatments can be developed just for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10808921 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to understand why individuals identifying as African American/Black experience more severe and disabling chronic low back pain (cLBP) compared to other racial groups. By collecting blood samples, the study will explore the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to these disparities, focusing on how DNA methylation may influence pain outcomes. The research seeks to identify the mechanisms behind these differences, which could lead to more tailored and effective treatments for affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who identify as African American/Black and suffer from chronic low back pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as African American/Black or do not experience chronic low back pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for chronic low back pain, particularly for African American/Black patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that genetic and environmental factors play a significant role in chronic pain, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aroke, Edwin Ngomueh — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Aroke, Edwin Ngomueh
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.