Understanding the biology of human pain tissues
Official title: INTERCEPT: Integrated Research Center for human Pain Tissues
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10929973 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how chronic pain works in the body by examining the cells in human nerves, with the goal of finding better ways to manage pain and reduce the need for opioids.
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) | $2,330,157 |
| NIH project number | 5U19NS130607-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10929973 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain conditions who are seeking alternative treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain or those not experiencing chronic pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on chronic pain, which affects millions of Americans, and aims to improve our understanding of the biological mechanisms behind pain. By analyzing human pain tissues, the project seeks to identify the various cell types involved in pain processing and how they function at a molecular level. Utilizing advanced techniques like single nuclei RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics, researchers will create a detailed atlas of gene expression in human peripheral nerves. This foundational knowledge could lead to better pain management strategies and alternatives to opioid treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective and safer treatments for chronic pain, reducing reliance on opioids.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding pain mechanisms, but this project aims to provide a novel and comprehensive approach to studying human pain tissues.
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
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.