Understanding the genetic factors behind chronic low back pain
Official title: Epigenetic Drivers of Chronic Low Back Pain
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10978456 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in your genes might be linked to chronic low back pain from disc problems, and it’s for people who experience this kind of pain; by sharing some samples and information, you can help researchers find new ways to ease your pain and improve your life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | September 3, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $658,385 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AR083365-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978456 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals suffering from chronic low back pain, particularly those with discogenic pain linked to intervertebral disc degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute back pain or those whose pain is not related to intervertebral disc degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how changes in gene expression, specifically through a process called DNA methylation, contribute to chronic low back pain (LBP) caused by intervertebral disc degeneration. By examining the epigenetic mechanisms involved, the study aims to uncover the biological processes that lead to pain and disability in affected individuals. Patients may be asked to provide biological samples and participate in assessments to help researchers understand the relationship between their pain and genetic factors. The ultimate goal is to identify new treatment targets that could alleviate chronic pain and improve quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for chronic low back pain, reducing reliance on opioids and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on DNA methylation in discogenic low back pain is relatively novel, previous research has shown that epigenetic mechanisms can play a significant role in chronic pain conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stone, Laura S — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Stone, Laura S
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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.