Understanding pain development in adolescents and its differences between sexes

Behavioral and neurobiological predictors of widespread pain in early adolescence and sex-specific trajectories of pain during puberty

NIH-funded research University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11063160

This study is looking at how chronic pain starts in kids and teens, especially how it affects boys and girls differently during puberty, to find ways to help them feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ann Arbor, United States)
Project IDNIH-11063160 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how chronic pain develops in children and adolescents, focusing on the behavioral and neurobiological factors that contribute to widespread pain. It aims to understand the differences in pain experiences between boys and girls during puberty. By analyzing data from the Adolescent Brain and Cognitive Development study, researchers will explore how pain is linked to changes in the central nervous system and associated symptoms like fatigue and anxiety. The goal is to identify early predictors of pain to improve treatment strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adolescents experiencing chronic pain or related symptoms, particularly those aged 12-20.

Not a fit: Patients who are not in the adolescent age range or do not experience chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and management of chronic pain in adolescents, ultimately improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of pain in adults can inform treatment, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for adolescents as well.

Where this research is happening

Ann Arbor, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.