Understanding how the brain detects and processes pain.
Official title: Neural Coding and Control of Pain Detection in Somatosensory Cortex
Funded at Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru · NIH-11056445 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how the brain senses and processes pain, especially in people who have ongoing pain, by using special techniques on mice to learn more about how brain activity relates to pain, with the hope of finding better ways to manage pain in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $560,934 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS136997-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11056445 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions, as well as healthy participants for comparative analysis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain or those not experiencing chronic pain conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's somatosensory cortex to understand how it detects and processes pain, particularly in individuals with chronic pain conditions. The study employs advanced techniques, including electrophysiological recordings and optogenetic interventions, to analyze neural activity patterns in mice. By examining the relationship between brain oscillations and pain responses, the research aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of pain perception, which could lead to improved pain management strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches for managing pain more effectively.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding pain mechanisms through similar electrophysiological approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saab, Carl Y — Cleveland Clinic Lerner Com-Cwru
- Study coordinator: Saab, Carl Y
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Susceptibility-based MRI biomarkers for multiple sclerosis
A short-term study aims to test MRI biomarkers that could help diagnose and predict MS in patients, using advanced imaging techniques.
-
Population genomics in peripartum cardiomyopathy
A gene-focused study to understand why some women develop heart failure around and after pregnancy, with an emphasis on African ancestry.
-
Broad antiviral therapy by targeting a key enzyme in nucleotide synthesis
A plan to block a human enzyme that many viruses need, with the aim of creating a broad-spectrum antiviral treatment for infections like SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and HSV-1.
-
Cellular-level Vascular Oculomics for Monitoring Systemic Vascular Health
A multi-site project using eye imaging and AI to monitor blood vessel health in people, with devices and software developed across four clinical sites.
-
Cellular-level Eye Signals to Track Vascular Health
A multi-site project aims to create and test portable imaging devices and AI tools that can monitor blood vessel health through the eye.
-
Outcomes in cirrhosis from different causes and the role of HIV and simvastatin
This study looks at how cirrhosis from alcohol, HIV, and other causes affects patients and whether simvastatin can influence outcomes.
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.