Understanding how the brain controls pain signals
Defining the descending pain modulatory circuit
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain work together to control how we feel pain, especially when someone has ongoing inflammation, with the hope of finding better ways to help people with chronic pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098551 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's pain modulatory system, focusing on how specific brain regions communicate to regulate pain perception. By using advanced techniques like optogenetics, the study aims to map the circuits involved in pain facilitation and inhibition. The research will explore how these circuits change in response to persistent inflammation, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of chronic pain conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who experience chronic pain or have conditions related to pain modulation.
Not a fit: Patients who do not experience pain or have conditions unrelated to pain modulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies for managing chronic pain and improving pain relief strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding pain modulation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ingram, Susan L — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Ingram, Susan L
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.