New Ways to Manage Cancer Pain with Resolvin D1

Treatment of cancer pain by lipid mediator Resolvin D1: role of Prostaglandin and Endocannabinoid signaling

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11137832

This project looks for new and safer ways to relieve severe cancer pain, especially bone pain, without using opioids.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11137832 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Resolvin D1 (RvD1), a natural substance derived from omega-3 fatty acids, as a potential new treatment for cancer pain. We are exploring how RvD1 works in the body to reduce pain signals and enhance the body's natural pain-fighting systems. The goal is to understand the specific ways RvD1 can lessen pain without the common side effects associated with opioid medications. This work uses a mouse model to carefully observe how RvD1 affects pain and other body functions, aiming to identify its underlying mechanisms.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Patients experiencing severe cancer pain, particularly bone cancer pain, who are seeking alternatives to opioid treatments, could potentially benefit from future therapies developed from this research.

Not a fit: Patients whose pain is not related to cancer or who do not experience severe pain may not directly benefit from this specific pain management approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, effective, and non-addictive medications for severe cancer pain, offering a much-needed alternative to opioids.

How similar studies have performed: While Resolvin D1 is a known anti-inflammatory mediator, its specific application and mechanisms for cancer pain as an opioid alternative are being explored in this novel context.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.