Understanding Brain Chemistry for Pain and Addiction

Molecular Profiling & Characterization

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11166691

This center helps scientists learn more about the brain's chemical signals to better understand health, pain, and addiction.

Quick facts

Grant typeP30 center grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Champaign, United States)
Project IDNIH-11166691 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

Our core facility is dedicated to exploring the intricate chemistry of the brain, which is essential for understanding conditions like chronic pain and drug addiction. We use advanced techniques, especially mass spectrometry, to precisely identify and measure the molecules involved in how brain cells communicate. By providing detailed information on these molecular drivers, we aim to uncover the fundamental processes behind addiction and other neurological challenges. This work supports researchers in developing new ways to manage pain and treat addiction.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This grant supports basic scientific research, so direct patient participation is not applicable, but patients with conditions like chronic pain or addiction may benefit from the discoveries made possible by this work.

Not a fit: Patients without conditions related to brain chemistry, pain, or addiction may not directly benefit from this specific research support core.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this foundational research could lead to new insights and eventually better treatments for individuals suffering from pain, drug addiction, and withdrawal.

How similar studies have performed: Mass spectrometry is a well-established analytical technique, and its application in neuroproteomics is a growing field with ongoing successes in identifying molecular targets for various neurological conditions.

Where this research is happening

Champaign, 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.