Understanding the brain's role in chronic pain
Investigation of neural ensembles underlying chronic pain
This study is looking at how certain brain cells are involved in turning short-term pain into long-lasting pain, with the hope of finding new, safer treatments for chronic pain that don't use opioids.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10982448 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific groups of neurons in the brain contribute to chronic pain, which affects many adults worldwide. By focusing on the basolateral amygdala, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to the transition from acute to chronic pain. The approach includes advanced brain imaging techniques to observe neural activity and its relationship to pain perception. The goal is to identify new, non-addictive treatments for chronic pain that do not rely on opioids.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 who experience chronic pain.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain that has not transitioned to a chronic state may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative, non-addictive therapies for managing chronic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the neural mechanisms of pain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Irvine, United States
- University of California-Irvine — Irvine, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hui, May — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Hui, May
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.