Understanding how Kappa Opioid Receptors work to improve pain management
Structural Determinants of Kappa Opioid Receptor Signaling
This study is exploring a special receptor in the body that could help relieve pain without the risk of addiction, aiming to find new and safer pain medications that might also help with issues like addiction and depression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11075203 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the Kappa Opioid Receptor (KOR), a type of receptor in the body that plays a crucial role in pain sensation and has the potential to provide pain relief without the high risk of addiction associated with traditional opioids. The study aims to uncover how KOR interacts with different signaling pathways, which could lead to the development of safer pain medications. By analyzing the structural details of KOR and its interactions with various molecules, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic options for managing pain and treating conditions like addiction and depression. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to innovative treatments with fewer side effects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain, addiction, or depression who are seeking alternative treatment options.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience pain or related conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer pain relief options that minimize the risk of addiction and overdose.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting Kappa Opioid Receptors, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Che, Tao — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Che, Tao
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.