Understanding how certain brain circuits control pain.
Novel Circuits and Mechanisms of Descending Pain Modulation
This study is exploring how certain brain cells help control pain, with the hope of finding new ways to manage pain better for people dealing with both short-term and long-lasting pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11001471 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex neural circuits involved in pain processing, focusing on a newly identified group of neurons in the brain that regulate pain. By using advanced techniques like chemogenetics, the study aims to understand how these neurons interact with other pain pathways and how they can be targeted for better pain management. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to the development of new therapies for both acute and chronic pain conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions who have not found relief with current treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain that is easily managed or those without chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for managing chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding pain modulation through neural circuits, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Usachev, Yuriy M — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Usachev, Yuriy M
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.