Understanding human pain-sensing cells to improve pain treatments
Project 1: Multi-omic characterization of human nociceptors
This study is looking at the tiny cells in our bodies that help us feel pain, to better understand how they work and how our genes might affect them, with the hope of finding new ways to help people manage pain more effectively.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10928098 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular characteristics of human nociceptors, the cells responsible for sensing pain. By utilizing advanced single-cell genomics, the project aims to create a detailed atlas of these cells, examining their gene expression and how genetic variations influence their function. This work seeks to bridge the gap between animal models and human pain treatments, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for managing pain. Patients may benefit from insights gained about pain mechanisms and the development of targeted therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing chronic pain or those with conditions affecting nociceptor function.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those not experiencing pain-related issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective pain management therapies tailored to individual patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using single-cell genomics to understand pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Renthal, William Russell — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Renthal, William Russell
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.