Understanding how spinal cord stimulation affects pain relief mechanisms
Systematic characterization of inhibitory subpopulations activated by spinal cord stimulation using a targeted strategy
This study is looking into how spinal cord stimulation helps relieve chronic pain in the back and limbs by exploring the specific nerve cells it activates, with the hope of making this therapy even more effective for people who need pain relief without using opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10571637 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological mechanisms behind spinal cord stimulation (SCS), a therapy used to alleviate chronic pain in the back and limbs without relying on opioids. By using a specialized mouse model, the study aims to identify and classify the specific inhibitory neuron populations activated by different SCS settings. Researchers will employ advanced techniques to visualize and analyze these neurons, helping to clarify how varying stimulation parameters influence pain relief. The ultimate goal is to enhance the effectiveness of SCS in clinical settings.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from intractable chronic pain in the back or limbs who may benefit from spinal cord stimulation.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not respond to spinal cord stimulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved spinal cord stimulation therapies that provide better pain relief for patients with chronic pain conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the mechanisms of spinal cord stimulation, but this approach aims to provide more detailed insights into specific neuronal populations, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Oregon Health & Science University — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sdrulla, Andrei D — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Sdrulla, Andrei D
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.