Understanding how genetic factors affect chronic pain in children after surgery.
Epigenetic Determinants Influencing Development and Evolution of Chronic Post-surgical Pain in Children Undergoing Musculoskeletal Surgery.
This study is looking at how certain changes in our genes might affect whether kids experience long-lasting pain after surgeries for things like spine or chest issues, with the goal of finding ways to help those kids feel better and need less medication.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cincinnati, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10676771 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of epigenetic factors, specifically DNA methylation, in the development of chronic post-surgical pain (CPSP) in children undergoing painful musculoskeletal surgeries like spine fusion and pectus repair. By analyzing genetic markers and their relationship to pain responses, the study aims to identify children at risk for CPSP and develop personalized treatment strategies. The approach includes epigenome-wide association studies to explore how environmental and genetic factors interact over time to influence pain outcomes. This could lead to better pain management and reduced reliance on opioids for affected children.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children undergoing musculoskeletal surgeries, particularly spine fusion or pectus repair.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing these specific types of surgeries or who do not experience chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to personalized pain management strategies that significantly improve recovery and quality of life for children after surgery.
How similar studies have performed: Similar research has shown promise in understanding chronic pain mechanisms through genetic and epigenetic factors, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Cincinnati, United States
- Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr — Cincinnati, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chidambaran, Vidya — Cincinnati Childrens Hosp Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Chidambaran, Vidya
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.