Understanding how the brain processes pain and natural pain relief
Official title: Thalamocortical dynamics during nociception and endogenous analgesia
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11000645 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains handle pain and how our bodies can help ease it, with the goal of finding new, safer ways to manage pain without using opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $49,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F99NS135765-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11000645 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain who are seeking alternative pain management options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience pain or have conditions unrelated to pain management may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the brain's mechanisms for processing pain and how the body naturally alleviates it. By focusing on specific brain circuits involved in pain sensation and relief, the study aims to identify the types of cells that respond to pain and how they can be targeted for better pain management. Using advanced techniques, researchers will explore how these circuits function and how they can be manipulated to enhance pain relief without relying on traditional opioid medications. This could lead to new treatments that are safer and more effective for managing pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative pain management strategies that reduce reliance on opioids and improve quality of life for patients suffering from chronic pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuits related to pain and analgesia, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ejoh, Lindsay — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Ejoh, Lindsay
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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.