Understanding how central nervous system changes affect overactive bladder symptoms
Official title: Central Sensitization and Psychosocial Impacts on Overactive Bladder
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-10890812 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the brain and nervous system might affect people with overactive bladder, which causes a strong need to urinate often, and aims to find better, more personalized treatments by considering both physical and emotional factors.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 24, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $467,430 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DK128293-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890812 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of overactive bladder, such as urinary urgency and frequency, particularly those who have not found relief with standard treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurogenic causes of bladder dysfunction may not benefit from this research, as it focuses on non-neurogenic overactive bladder.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of central sensitization in overactive bladder (OAB), a condition that causes urinary urgency and frequency. It aims to identify how changes in the central nervous system may contribute to bladder hypersensitivity and the psychosocial impacts associated with OAB. By examining both physical and emotional factors, the study seeks to develop a more personalized approach to treatment, moving away from the current one-size-fits-all methods. Patients will be assessed through various tests to better understand their specific symptoms and experiences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and tailored treatments for individuals suffering from overactive bladder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding central sensitization in other chronic pain conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sebesta, Elisabeth M — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Sebesta, Elisabeth M
Related research
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This research uses targeted, noninvasive brain stimulation to try to reduce urinary urgency, frequency, and leakage in women with multiple sclerosis.
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Long-lasting bladder treatment for urinary leaks and urgency in older adults
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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.