Using engineered stem cells to treat chronic pain in veterans
hAAT-engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells for the Treatment of Chronic Pain
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10807234
This study is looking at a special type of stem cell that might help reduce chronic pain for veterans with chronic pancreatitis by lowering inflammation in the pancreas and nearby nerves.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10807234 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of engineered mesenchymal stem cells that overexpress human alpha-1 antitrypsin to treat chronic pain associated with chronic pancreatitis. The approach involves studying how these stem cells can reduce inflammation and pain by affecting the signaling pathways in the pancreas and adjacent nerve cells. The research utilizes a mouse model to explore the mechanisms of pain and inflammation, aiming to translate these findings into potential therapies for veterans suffering from chronic pain. By understanding the relationship between pancreatic inflammation and nerve activation, the study hopes to identify effective treatments for chronic pain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans experiencing chronic pain, particularly those with chronic pancreatitis.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those not suffering from chronic pancreatitis may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option for veterans suffering from chronic pain, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of stem cells for pain management is an emerging field, this specific approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in similar contexts.
Where this research is happening
CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES
- RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER — CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, HONGJUN — RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: WANG, HONGJUN
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.