Understanding and treating long-lasting pain that doesn't respond to opioids
Cellular signaling mechanisms that drive persistent hyperexcitability in nociceptors
This research explores how nerve cells contribute to ongoing pain and opioid resistance, aiming to find new ways to provide relief for people with chronic pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11142149 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are looking into the specific signals within sensory nerve cells that cause pain to continue and make common pain medications like opioids less effective. Our goal is to uncover these underlying processes so we can develop better treatments. We are also testing new medication approaches in models of spinal cord and surgical injury to see if they can reduce pain and improve how opioids work. This work could lead to more effective pain management strategies for those living with persistent discomfort.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant to patients experiencing chronic pain, especially those whose pain is not well-controlled by current opioid medications or who have pain following spinal cord or surgical injuries.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options will not directly benefit from this basic science research, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms and developing future therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments that better manage chronic pain and help overcome the problem of opioid resistance, offering more effective relief.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing findings regarding nerve cell activity and opioid resistance, while also exploring novel predictions for enhancing pain treatment with existing drugs.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dessauer, Carmen W. — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Dessauer, Carmen W.
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.