Understanding how spinal pain signals are transmitted to the brain
Analysis of ascending spinal pain circuits
This study is looking at how certain nerve cells in the spinal cord send pain signals to the brain, especially focusing on a new type of cell that might help us understand and treat chronic pain better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11048926 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how pain signals from the body are relayed to the brain through specific spinal cord neurons. It focuses on a newly identified group of neurons that express the GPR83 receptor, which may play a crucial role in chronic pain. By studying these neurons, the research aims to uncover new therapeutic targets for pain management. The approach includes examining the interactions between different pain pathways and their responses to various stimuli.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions who have not found relief through existing treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain or those whose pain is not related to spinal cord signaling may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for chronic pain that are more effective than current options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting spinal pain circuits, but this specific approach focusing on GPR83-expressing neurons is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Choi, Seungwon — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Choi, Seungwon
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.