Understanding how heme affects pain in sickle cell disease
Investigating the Role of Heme in Acute and Chronic Sickle Cell Disease Pain
This study is looking at how a substance called heme might cause pain in people with sickle cell disease by testing it on mice, so we can better understand the pain they feel and find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical College of Wisconsin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Milwaukee, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10898642 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of heme, a substance that can accumulate in the body, in causing pain for individuals with sickle cell disease (SCD). The study will explore how elevated levels of heme contribute to both acute and chronic pain by examining the behavior of mice with SCD and how their sensory neurons react to heme. By using various experimental techniques, including behavioral assessments and electrophysiology, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind pain in SCD and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 12 to 20 who have been diagnosed with sickle cell disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have sickle cell disease or are outside the age range of 12 to 20 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate pain for patients suffering from sickle cell disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting heme levels may be a promising approach for managing pain in sickle cell disease, suggesting potential for success in this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Milwaukee, United States
- Medical College of Wisconsin — Milwaukee, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zorn, Samuel Joshua — Medical College of Wisconsin
- Study coordinator: Zorn, Samuel Joshua
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.