Spinal neuropeptides and chronic itch
Understanding spinal neuropeptide signaling in itch
Researchers will look at how two spinal neuropeptides, substance P and GRP, change spinal nerve circuits to cause acute and chronic itch.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10973726 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project will focus on two neuropeptides in the spinal cord—substance P (SP) and gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP)—that are increased in many chronic itch conditions. The team will use advanced methods from high-resolution imaging to population-level recordings and connectivity mapping to see whether these peptides act on the same cells as normal neurotransmitters or engage different targets. Experiments will model both acute and persistent itch, and the investigator will learn and apply cutting-edge techniques during the K99 phase. The overall aim is to map how neuropeptide signaling reconfigures spinal circuits that generate itch.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with chronic, treatment-resistant itch (chronic pruritus) would be the most relevant patient group for this research and any future trials derived from it.
Not a fit: Patients whose itching is caused by simple external factors like dry skin or who need immediate symptom relief are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new spinal-cord targets for treatments that reduce or stop chronic itch.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal and laboratory studies have linked SP and GRP to itch signaling, but the precise circuit mechanisms remain novel and not yet proven in humans.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sheahan, Tayler — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Sheahan, Tayler
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.