New treatments for chronic low back pain using engineered cell therapies

Novel non-viral reprogramming strategies to treat Discogenic back pain via engineered extracellular vesicles

NIH-funded research Ohio State University · NIH-11015895

This study is exploring a new way to help people with chronic low back pain by using special tiny particles to heal the damaged discs in their backs, offering a safer and less invasive treatment option that could help reduce pain without relying on addictive medications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOhio State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11015895 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing innovative therapies to treat chronic low back pain, which is often caused by degeneration of the intervertebral discs. The approach involves using engineered extracellular vesicles to reprogram degenerate cells in the discs, aiming to restore their healthy function and reduce pain. By targeting the underlying causes of pain rather than just the symptoms, this research seeks to provide a minimally invasive and non-addictive treatment option. Patients may benefit from a new way to manage their pain without relying on opioids.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic low back pain due to intervertebral disc degeneration.

Not a fit: Patients with acute back pain or those whose pain is not related to intervertebral disc degeneration may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel, non-addictive treatment for chronic low back pain that addresses the root causes of the condition.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar strategies targeting cellular reprogramming for pain management have shown promise in preliminary studies.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.