Understanding how nerve injuries affect pain-related gene regulation
Mechanisms of Epigenetic Plasticity in Neuropathic Pain
This study is exploring how nerve injuries can cause long-lasting pain by looking at changes in certain genes and proteins in the body, which could help find new ways to treat chronic pain for people who suffer from it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11060037 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms that lead to chronic pain following nerve injuries. It focuses on how traumatic nerve damage alters the regulation of genes involved in pain perception, particularly looking at a specific protein called α2δ-1. By studying the role of certain enzymes that modify DNA and histones, the research aims to uncover how these changes contribute to the development and persistence of neuropathic pain. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing chronic pain conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced traumatic nerve injuries or suffer from neuropathic pain.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain not related to nerve injuries or those with other unrelated pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients suffering from chronic neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding pain mechanisms, but this specific approach to studying epigenetic factors in neuropathic pain is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Hui-Lin — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Pan, Hui-Lin
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.