Understanding how the brain's waste clearance system affects chronic pain and sleep.

The glymphatic system at the crossroad of integrative health approaches inchronic pain

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER · NIH-11083083

This study is looking at how chronic pain affects the brain's waste-clearing system and sleep, using mice to see if common pain treatments can help improve both pain and sleep quality, which could lead to better options for people dealing with these issues.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF ROCHESTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11083083 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the glymphatic system, which helps clear waste from the brain, and its relationship with chronic pain and sleep disturbances. By using a mouse model of neuropathic pain, the study aims to explore how chronic pain affects glymphatic function and how traditional pain relief methods might improve both pain and sleep quality. The researchers will examine the role of norepinephrine, a stress-related chemical, in disrupting sleep and glymphatic function. The findings could provide insights into new treatment approaches for patients suffering from chronic pain and sleep issues.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic pain, particularly those with sleep disturbances.

Not a fit: Patients who do not suffer from chronic pain or related sleep issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved pain management strategies and better sleep quality for patients with chronic pain conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that enhancing glymphatic function can improve outcomes in models of chronic pain, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.

Where this research is happening

ROCHESTER, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.