Understanding how certain nerve cells regulate pain and discomfort in the body

Intrinsic Inhibitory Mechanisms of Vagal Nociceptors

['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11101432

This study is looking into how certain nerve cells become too active when there's inflammation, causing ongoing problems like pain and bladder or breathing issues, and it aims to find new ways to help people who suffer from these chronic conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11101432 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which specific nerve cells, known as visceral nociceptors, become overly active in response to inflammation, leading to various chronic symptoms such as pain, bladder issues, and breathing difficulties. The study aims to uncover the ionic and molecular pathways that control the excitability of these nerves, focusing particularly on the role of potassium channels that inhibit nerve activity. By identifying these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop new therapeutic strategies to alleviate the suffering of patients with chronic visceral disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic visceral pain, bladder irritability, or other related symptoms due to inflammatory conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with acute, non-chronic conditions or those without visceral inflammatory disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce chronic pain and discomfort for patients suffering from visceral inflammatory disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding nociceptor mechanisms, but this specific focus on inhibitory pathways is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BALTIMORE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.