Understanding how animal compounds affect sensory neurons
Modulating single cell types in the sensory nervous system
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF UTAH · NIH-10885941
This study is looking at how natural substances from animals can help improve the way our nerves send signals about sensations like pain and touch, which could lead to better treatments for people dealing with chronic pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF UTAH (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10885941 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how natural compounds derived from animals and their microbiomes influence the signaling of sensory neurons, which are crucial for processing sensations like pain and touch. By focusing on individual subclasses of these neurons, the study aims to identify specific compounds that can target distinct types of sensory responses. The approach involves applying neuroactive ligands to sensory cells to visualize their effects, potentially leading to new treatments for chronic pain conditions caused by neuron damage. This work could enhance our understanding of the somatosensory nervous system and its role in pain management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions or other sensory nervous system disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain or those not affected by sensory nervous system disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of new drugs for treating chronic pain and other nervous system disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using natural compounds for targeting specific neuronal pathways, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF UTAH — SALT LAKE CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SCHMIDT, ERIC W — UNIVERSITY OF UTAH
- Study coordinator: SCHMIDT, ERIC 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.
Conditions: Animal Disease Models