New gene therapy approach for treating chronic pain
Next Generation Gene Therapy for Refractory Pain
This study is testing a new gene therapy that aims to help people with chronic pain by specifically targeting the nerve cells that send pain signals, so it could offer a safer and more effective way to manage pain without affecting other senses.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017848 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel gene therapy aimed at selectively inhibiting the sensory neurons responsible for transmitting pain signals, known as nociceptors. By utilizing advanced viral-based techniques, the study seeks to deliver therapeutic molecules specifically to these pain-transmitting neurons without affecting other sensory functions. The approach leverages recent advancements in single-cell genomics to identify unique gene expression patterns in nociceptors, which will be used to engineer targeted viral therapies. This could provide a more effective and safer alternative to current pain management strategies, particularly for patients suffering from chronic pain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults suffering from chronic pain who have not found relief with existing pain management therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not experience chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective pain relief options with fewer side effects than traditional treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While gene therapy for pain management is a relatively novel approach, there have been promising advancements in similar areas, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Renthal, William Russell — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Renthal, William Russell
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.