Programmable lithium-delivery devices for pain relief without motor loss
Official title: Programmable Lithium-Ion Delivery Devices for Motor-Sparing Neuropathic Pain Therapy
Funded at University of Chicago · NIH-11429988 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new bioelectronic system uses a safe lithium source and AI-powered control to deliver targeted pain relief for neuropathic pain, aiming to spare motor function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $677,636 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS151858-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11429988 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are patients with neuropathic pain who require targeted, adjustable neuromodulation and who can benefit from a motor-sparing approach.
✕Less likely to help
Patients seeking non-neuromodulation pain treatments or those with contraindications to implants or AI-controlled devices may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project develops a wearable and implantable platform that can release lithium ions directly near nerves to block pain signals. It combines flexible electrodes with AI-driven closed-loop control to adjust dosing in real time based on pain-related signals. The approach seeks to avoid the systemic toxicity of lithium and the tissue buildup seen with traditional stimulators, offering localized, reversible neuromodulation. By integrating sensors and edge AI, the system aims to personalize therapy and maintain stability over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with neuropathic pain could experience targeted relief with fewer systemic side effects and preserved motor function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous neuromodulation approaches show promise, but this work is novel in using a lithium-delivery platform with AI-enabled closed-loop control for motor-sparing pain relief.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tian, Bozhi — University of Chicago
- Study coordinator: Tian, Bozhi
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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.