Understanding how a bacterial component can help chronic pain
Lipoteichoic acid mediated modulation of chronic pain
This research explores how a natural substance from bacteria might help reduce chronic pelvic pain, a condition that currently lacks effective treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11169042 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS) causes significant discomfort in the pelvic region for many men, and current treatments often fall short. This project looks into a specific component, called lipoteichoic acid (SELTA), found in a common skin bacterium, Staphylococcus epidermidis. Researchers previously found that this bacterial component could lessen pelvic pain in animal models by calming the immune system and activating natural pain-reducing pathways in nerves. The goal is to understand how SELTA works to reduce pain, potentially leading to new ways to treat this challenging condition.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients experiencing chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome who are interested in the development of new treatment approaches.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or those whose pain is not related to chronic pelvic pain syndrome may not directly benefit from this early-stage research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new and more effective treatments for chronic pelvic pain, offering relief to many who currently suffer without good options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has shown promising results in animal models, demonstrating that a bacterial component can reduce pelvic pain and modulate immune responses.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thumbikat, Praveen — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Thumbikat, Praveen
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.