Mapping pain-related genes and cells throughout life
Scale up single-cell technologies to map pain-associated genes and cells across the lifespan
This study is looking at how chronic pain works in different age groups, from babies to older adults, by examining the genes and cells involved, and it aims to find new ways to diagnose and treat pain, especially after surgery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10580155 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to understand the complex mechanisms of chronic pain by mapping the genes, circuits, and cells involved across different age groups, including infants, children, and the elderly. Using innovative single-cell technologies called 'Raman2Omics', the researchers will investigate how these pain-related factors change over time and in specific populations, such as pregnant women. The study will utilize a mouse model to explore postoperative pain and generate valuable molecular information that could lead to new diagnostic and treatment options for chronic pain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals across the lifespan, particularly infants, children, elderly individuals, and pregnant women who experience chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience chronic pain or are outside the specified age groups may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel diagnostics and treatments for chronic pain, improving the quality of life for many patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using single-cell technologies to map pain-related genes is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of biomedical research.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shu, Jian — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Shu, Jian
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.