Understanding the genetic and neural factors behind chronic pain after surgery
Chronic postoperative pain: Genetic and Neural Circuit Mechanisms
This study is looking into why some people experience long-lasting pain after surgery, especially after procedures like amputations and heart surgeries, and aims to find ways to predict who might be at risk and improve how we can prevent and treat that pain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10836986 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the causes of chronic postoperative pain, which can persist for months or years after surgery, affecting millions of patients. The study aims to identify genetic biomarkers and neural mechanisms that predict which patients are at risk of developing this type of pain. By examining the efficiency of pain inhibition mechanisms in patients and animal models, the researchers hope to develop better prevention and treatment strategies. The focus is on surgeries with high rates of chronic pain, such as amputations and cardiac procedures.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals undergoing high-risk surgeries such as amputations, cardiac surgeries, or thoracotomies.
Not a fit: Patients who are not undergoing surgery or those with conditions unrelated to postoperative pain may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved methods for predicting and preventing chronic postoperative pain, enhancing patient recovery and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in identifying genetic and neural factors related to pain, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Taylor, Norman — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Taylor, Norman
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.