Understanding pain mechanisms in temporomandibular disorders
Official title: Nociplastic mechanisms in temporomandibular disorders: Separating nociception from pain
Funded at Emory University · NIH-11137240 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how people with jaw pain (TMD) feel and react to pain compared to those without pain, using a special heat test to learn more about how our bodies process pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $610,399 |
| NIH project number | 1R56DE033733-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137240 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with temporomandibular disorders as well as pain-free individuals for comparison.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain conditions unrelated to TMD may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how pain is processed in individuals with temporomandibular disorders (TMD) by using a technique called quantitative sensory testing (QST). The study aims to differentiate between nociceptive sensitivity, which is the body's response to harmful stimuli, and pain sensitivity, which is the subjective experience of pain. By applying noxious heat to specific areas of skin that do not respond to warmth, researchers can measure these sensitivities more accurately. The project will involve both individuals without pain and those suffering from TMD to better understand the underlying mechanisms of nociplastic pain.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for patients suffering from chronic pain conditions like TMD.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using quantitative sensory testing to understand pain mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harper, Daniel Elliott — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Harper, Daniel Elliott
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.