Understanding how acid-sensing channels affect bladder sensation
Role of acid-sensing ion channels in bladder sensory signaling
This research explores how specific channels in the bladder contribute to pain and sensation, aiming to help people with bladder discomfort.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11161597 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people experience bladder pain, which is a common reason to see a doctor, but we don't fully understand what causes it at a molecular level. This project focuses on tiny structures called acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) and how they influence the signals sent from the bladder to the brain. We believe these channels might control how bladder nerves fire, potentially by triggering a chain of events that leads to nerve adaptation. By studying these mechanisms, we hope to uncover new ways to manage bladder pain and improve bladder control.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but is relevant to individuals experiencing chronic bladder pain or bladder control problems.
Not a fit: Patients without bladder pain or bladder control issues would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments or therapies for chronic bladder pain and issues with bladder control by targeting these specific channels.
How similar studies have performed: Previous findings regarding ASIC3 in mice have presented puzzling results, suggesting this research is exploring novel and untested mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carattino, Marcelo Daniel — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Carattino, Marcelo Daniel
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.