Understanding how certain immune cells help reduce pain in women undergoing chemotherapy

Novel expression of MHC class II on DRG neurons and its role in promoting antinociceptive CD4+ T cells in females during chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy

NIH-funded research University of New England · NIH-10897835

This study is looking at how certain immune cells might help reduce pain from chemotherapy in women, and it aims to find out how these cells work with nerve cells and are affected by hormones, so we can improve pain relief for women during cancer treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of New England NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Biddeford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10897835 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific immune cells, known as CD4+ T cells, in alleviating pain caused by chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) in female patients. The study focuses on how these immune cells interact with nerve cells in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and how their presence is influenced by hormonal factors. By examining the differences between male and female responses to chemotherapy, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better pain management strategies for women undergoing cancer treatment.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women undergoing chemotherapy, particularly those at risk for developing peripheral neuropathy.

Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing chemotherapy or who are male may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for women experiencing chemotherapy-induced neuropathy.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding immune cell interactions in pain management, but this specific approach focusing on female patients and CD4+ T cells is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Biddeford, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.