Understanding how acid-sensing ion channels affect bladder signaling and pain.
Official title: Role of acid-sensing ion channels in bladder sensory signaling
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10911275 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain channels in nerve cells help send signals about bladder sensations and pain, which could help us understand bladder pain better, especially for people dealing with conditions like cystitis.
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 start | August 22, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $305,280 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK134431-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10911275 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic bladder pain or conditions like cystitis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with bladder issues not related to pain signaling or those who do not have chronic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of acid-sensing ion channels (ASICs) in the signaling pathways of bladder afferent neurons, which are crucial for normal bladder sensation and pain perception. By studying genetically modified mice and employing advanced techniques like calcium imaging and patch-clamp analysis, the researchers aim to uncover how ASICs influence the electrical signals that communicate bladder conditions to the nervous system. The goal is to better understand the mechanisms behind bladder-related pain, particularly in conditions like cystitis, which can lead to chronic discomfort for patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for bladder pain and dysfunction, improving the quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of ion channels in pain signaling, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
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.