Understanding how the brain processes pain
Official title: Defining the forebrain neurophysiological representation of pain
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11003692 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain react to pain during surgery, and it’s for patients who will have electrodes placed in their brains to help us understand how feelings and thoughts can change the way we experience pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $195,561 |
| NIH project number | 5K08NS123543-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003692 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are undergoing surgical procedures and have pre-existing chronic pain conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic pain or are not undergoing surgery may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's neurophysiological representation of pain by examining specific brain regions involved in pain perception. Patients undergoing surgery will have intracranial EEG electrodes placed, allowing researchers to monitor brain activity related to pain. The study aims to explore how emotional and cognitive factors influence the experience of pain, using patients' self-reported pain levels and responses to pain relief treatments. By analyzing these interactions, the research seeks to identify potential biomarkers for chronic pain conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies for patients suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding pain mechanisms through neurophysiological approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ben-Haim, Sharona — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ben-Haim, Sharona
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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.