Understanding how the brain's opioid system affects pain relief.
Endogenous opioid modulation of cortical pain circuits.
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11066338
This study is looking at how a part of the brain helps manage pain relief, especially when people feel better just by expecting to, rather than taking medicine, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding new ways to handle chronic pain.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11066338 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain's opioid system modulates pain relief, particularly focusing on the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and its mu opioid receptors. Using advanced techniques like calcium imaging and a novel opioid biosensor, the study aims to explore the neural mechanisms behind placebo analgesia, which is the relief of pain through expectation rather than medication. By examining how these brain circuits respond during pain relief scenarios, the research seeks to uncover new insights into chronic pain management.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions who may benefit from understanding the psychological aspects of pain relief.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain or those who do not experience chronic pain may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for managing chronic pain without relying solely on medications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the placebo effect and its relation to pain relief, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: OSWELL, CORINNA — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: OSWELL, CORINNA
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.