Understanding the genetics of chronic pain to create safer pain medications
Official title: Harnessing the genetics of chronic pain to inform the development of non-additive analgesic medications
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11137460 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes might play a role in chronic pain and the risk of addiction, with the goal of finding safer medications to help manage pain for people like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $118,457 |
| NIH project number | 1K99DA060906-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11137460 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic pain, particularly those with a genetic predisposition to pain and addiction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute pain conditions or those who do not have a genetic component to their pain may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to chronic pain and its potential for addiction. By analyzing genetic data from a diverse population, the study aims to identify new or repurposed medications that can effectively manage pain without the risks associated with current treatments. The principal investigator, Dr. Sylvanus Toikumo, will utilize advanced genetic analysis techniques to uncover the underlying mechanisms of chronic pain, which could lead to safer analgesic options for patients. The research also emphasizes training and skill development for the investigator to ensure the project's success.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of non-addictive pain medications that are more effective and have fewer side effects.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that leveraging genetic insights can significantly enhance the development of effective medications, indicating a promising approach in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Toikumo, Sylvanus — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Toikumo, Sylvanus
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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.