Targeting LRP1 to reduce nerve inflammation and neuropathic pain
Official title: Targeting LRP1 in Neuroinflammation and Neuropathic Pain
Funded at VA San Diego Healthcare System · NIH-11264842 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This work looks at whether focusing on a protein called LRP1 in nerve support cells can help people with chronic neuropathic pain after peripheral nerve injury.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA San Diego Healthcare System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Diego, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006386-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11264842 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People who have chronic neuropathic pain following peripheral nerve injury are the most relevant candidates for this line of work.
✕Less likely to help
Patients whose pain arises from central nervous system disorders or non-neuropathic causes are less likely to benefit from this approach.
What this research studies
The team studies Schwann cells, the support cells around peripheral nerves, which change after injury and can contribute to long-lasting pain. They focus on a receptor called LRP1 and a matching protein PACSIN1 that may turn Schwann cells toward a repair state. In lab models they will map how PACSIN1 binds LRP1, change that interaction to shift Schwann cell behavior, and measure effects on nerve inflammation and pain-related signals. The aim is to find ways to boost the Schwann cell repair program and reduce chronic neuropathic pain without relying on addictive drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could point to new non-addictive treatments that lessen chronic neuropathic pain after peripheral nerve injury.
How similar studies have gone: Prior preclinical work identified LRP1 and PACSIN1 roles in Schwann cell repair, but directly targeting LRP1 for pain relief is a novel and largely untested approach in humans.
Where this research is happening
-
VA San Diego Healthcare System
San Diego, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Campana, Wendy M. — VA San Diego Healthcare System
- Study coordinator: Campana, Wendy M.
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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.