Targeting specific channels involved in pain sensation
Official title: Targeting Specific ASIC Subunits and Heteromers Using Protein Engineering
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-11139251 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how certain proteins in our body that help us feel pain work, with the goal of finding new ways to create pain relief treatments for people who suffer from pain and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $231,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS138705-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11139251 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic pain or conditions related to pain perception, such as neuropathic pain or inflammatory pain.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience pain or have conditions unrelated to pain sensation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs), which play a crucial role in pain perception and various neurological conditions. By using protein engineering, the study aims to identify and target specific ASIC subunits that are involved in pain signaling. The approach includes investigating how these channels function in both humans and rodents, and how they can be manipulated to develop new analgesic treatments. The research seeks to overcome challenges in drug design by understanding the binding sites and mechanisms of these channels.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective pain relief treatments for patients suffering from various pain conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting ASIC channels for pain management, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maclean, David Malcom — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Maclean, David Malcom
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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.