Understanding how spinal cord cells affect bladder pain and function
Official title: Elucidating Roles of Distinct Spinal Cord Cell types in Mediating Interstitial Cystitis (IC)/Bladder Pain Syndrome (BPS)
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10945850 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different types of cells in the spinal cord help process bladder pain and function in people with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome, with the hope of finding better treatments for those who suffer from this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | August 20, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $625,060 |
| NIH project number | 1R01DK140445-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10945850 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome experiencing chronic bladder pain and urinary dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of interstitial cystitis or bladder pain syndrome are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the roles of different spinal cord cell types in processing sensations related to bladder pain and function in patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). By using advanced techniques like chemogenetics and optogenetics, the study aims to identify how specific spinal cells contribute to bladder discomfort and urinary issues. The research will also explore how these signals are transmitted to various brain regions, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of this painful condition. Ultimately, the goal is to enhance our understanding of spinal circuits involved in IC/BPS, which could lead to new treatment options for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of innovative therapies that alleviate bladder pain and improve urinary function for patients with IC/BPS.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown promise in understanding spinal cord mechanisms related to pain, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Samineni, Vijay K — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Samineni, Vijay K
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Understanding spinal cord cell roles in bladder pain and function
A study to map which spinal cord cells process bladder sensations and how they contribute to bladder pain and voiding problems in IC/BPS.
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How bladder support cells control the lining and bladder pain
Researchers are exploring whether special support cells in the bladder control nerve overgrowth and damage to the bladder lining in people with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS).
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Personalized treatments for bladder pain (interstitial cystitis)
A treatment approach aiming at the underlying causes of bladder pain for people with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome.
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Spinal cord cell types that drive bladder pain in interstitial cystitis (IC/BPS)
Researchers will use precise lab tools to find which spinal cord cells cause bladder pain and troublesome urination in people with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS).
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Understanding and treating bladder pain syndrome
This study is looking at interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS) to find out more about different types of patients based on their symptoms, so we can create better, personalized treatments that really help with their pain and urinary issues.
-
Improving brain and muscle activity to reduce pain in women with bladder pain syndrome
This study is looking at how brain activity affects chronic pain in women with Interstitial Cystitis/Bladder Pain Syndrome and will use a special treatment called rTMS to see if it can help improve brain and pelvic muscle function to reduce pain.
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.