New RNA-based drug approach for chronic neuropathic pain
Official title: Development and validation of human NIS-lncRNA ASO as a novel potential drug to neuropathic pain treatment
Funded at Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11266275 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new antisense RNA therapy targets a human nerve RNA to help people with chronic neuropathic pain without opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 5, 2026 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $787,111 |
| NIH project number | 1R61NS145978-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11266275 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with chronic neuropathic pain who have not achieved adequate relief from existing non-opioid therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neuropathic pain or those unable to participate in translational ASO research may not benefit.
What this research studies
This grant focuses on creating a non-opioid treatment by designing antisense oligonucleotides that block a human nerve RNA linked to chronic pain. The project tests these ASOs in human-derived sensory neurons and nonhuman primate models to ensure safety and lasting pain relief. If successful, it could lead to a novel, non-addictive option for people suffering from neuropathic pain who have limited current therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients could receive a non-opioid, long-lasting pain relief option.
How similar studies have gone: This approach is exploratory and uses translational ASO therapy in human-relevant models, with promise but not yet proven in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tao, Yuan-Xiang — Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Tao, Yuan-Xiang
Related research
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This grant looks at how supportive brain and nerve cells communicate with pain-sensing neurons to understand and reduce chronic nerve pain in people.
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Parmodulins with Low Abuse Potential for Neuropathic Pain
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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.