Understanding pain in women with breast cancer and low estrogen levels

Omics of Pain in the Context of Declining Estrogen

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10892953

This study is looking at why some women with early-stage breast cancer experience ongoing pain in their muscles and joints while they are getting treatment that lowers estrogen, and it hopes to find ways to help manage that pain better.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10892953 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates chronic musculoskeletal pain (MSKP) experienced by women with hormone receptor-positive early-stage breast cancer who are undergoing treatment that reduces estrogen levels. The study aims to explore the molecular mechanisms behind this pain by analyzing RNA and DNA samples from participants. By examining how declining estrogen affects pain pathways, the research seeks to identify potential genetic and biological factors that contribute to MSKP. This could lead to better pain management strategies for affected women.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women who have been newly diagnosed with early-stage hormone receptor-positive breast cancer and are receiving aromatase inhibitors.

Not a fit: Patients who are not postmenopausal or those who do not have hormone receptor-positive breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for chronic pain in women undergoing breast cancer therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding pain mechanisms related to hormonal changes, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, 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 2026-06-10 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.