Understanding how specific brain neurons affect chronic pain
Official title: Delineating how Calca neurons in the parabrachial nucleus mediate chronic pain
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10901885 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called Calca neurons affect chronic pain, and by understanding their role, we hope to find new ways to help people manage their pain better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $44,588 |
| NIH project number | 5F30DA057845-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901885 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia or other nociplastic pain syndromes.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain conditions or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of Calca neurons in the parabrachial nucleus of the brain in relation to chronic pain. By using a model of chronic pain induced by partial nerve ligation, the study aims to observe how these neurons behave and contribute to the experience of pain over time. The approach includes manipulating the activity of these neurons to determine their impact on pain perception, which could lead to new insights into pain management. Patients may benefit from findings that could inform future treatments for chronic pain conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neural mechanisms of chronic pain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Condon, Logan Francis — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Condon, Logan Francis
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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.