Understanding human nerve cells involved in pain
Official title: Functional and genetic characterization of human DRG and spinal cord at single cell resolution
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10930011 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the special nerve cells in our bodies that help us feel pain, with the goal of finding new ways to relieve chronic pain without using addictive medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $488,329 |
| NIH project number | 5U19NS130607-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930011 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pain conditions who are seeking alternative pain management options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not suffer from chronic pain or those who are not interested in exploring new pain management therapies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the specific types of nerve cells in the human body that are involved in pain processing. By examining these cells at a single-cell level, the study aims to identify their unique characteristics and how they function in different pain conditions. The approach includes using primary human cells and tissues, such as dorsal root ganglion neurons and spinal cord slices, to develop new experimental protocols and assays. This could lead to the discovery of new, non-addictive pain relief options for patients suffering from chronic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of safer, non-addictive pain management therapies for chronic pain sufferers.
How similar studies have gone: Other research initiatives have shown promise in identifying new pain management strategies, but this specific approach focusing on human nerve cells is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gereau, Robert W — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Gereau, Robert W
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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.