Understanding a specific receptor for neuropathic pain relief
Official title: α9α10 Nicotinic Acetylcholine Receptors in neuropathic pain
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11143249 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project aims to find new, safer ways to treat chronic neuropathic pain by focusing on a specific target in the body.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $624,360 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134647-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143249 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This research is ultimately for individuals who suffer from chronic neuropathic pain and are seeking better treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience neuropathic pain or whose pain is well-managed by existing treatments may not directly benefit from this specific research.
What this research studies
Many people experience chronic neuropathic pain, which often doesn't respond well to current treatments, including opioids that carry risks. We are working to understand a particular target in the body, called the α9α10 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, that plays a role in this type of pain. Our goal is to develop new medications that can block this receptor, offering a non-opioid option for effective pain relief. This approach could lead to safer and more effective treatments for those living with neuropathic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new, non-opioid medications that effectively and safely treat chronic neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work in animal models has shown that blocking this receptor can reduce pain symptoms, suggesting a promising path forward.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Riley, Andrew — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Riley, Andrew
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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.