Testing a new treatment for neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury in pigs

Evaluation of 6SHG/EM1 as a treatment for spinal cord injury-induced neuropathic pain in a pig model

NIH-funded research Veterans Health Administration · NIH-10948892

This study is exploring a new way to help people with nerve pain from spinal cord injuries by testing a special treatment in pigs that closely resemble human conditions, to see if it can effectively reduce their pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVeterans Health Administration NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Decatur, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10948892 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel treatment for neuropathic pain resulting from spinal cord injuries using a pig model that closely mimics human conditions. The approach involves delivering a gene therapy that combines an NMDA antagonist and an opioid agonist directly into the spinal cord. By utilizing quantitative sensory testing methods adapted for pigs, researchers aim to evaluate the effectiveness of this treatment in alleviating pain. The study builds on promising results from previous rodent research, aiming to validate these findings in a more clinically relevant animal model.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries and suffer from neuropathic pain.

Not a fit: Patients with neuropathic pain not related to spinal cord injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new and effective treatment for patients suffering from neuropathic pain after spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research in rodent models has shown promising results with similar gene therapy approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Decatur, 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.