Understanding how specific brain circuits contribute to chronic pain.
Official title: Identification of a Circuit Basis for Neuropathic Pain in the Parabrachial Nucleus
Funded at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center · NIH-11033014 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain, called the parabrachial nucleus, processes pain signals, especially in people with nerve pain, to find ways to create better treatments that can help reduce pain without interfering with other brain functions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $124,713 |
| NIH project number | 1K99NS140561-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033014 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic neuropathic pain conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain or those not experiencing neuropathic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the parabrachial nucleus (PBN) in processing pain signals from the spinal cord, particularly focusing on how certain neurons in this area become overly active in conditions like neuropathic pain. By utilizing advanced 3D imaging techniques, the study aims to identify which specific types of PBN neurons are involved in heightened pain perception. The goal is to develop targeted therapies that can inhibit these pain-related neurons without affecting other functions of the PBN, potentially leading to more effective pain management strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target chronic pain without causing unwanted side effects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific brain circuits for pain management, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh Alvarado, Jonnathan — Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Singh Alvarado, Jonnathan
Related research
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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.