Using glial cells to reduce visceral pain in bladder conditions
Activating Peripheral Glia to Relieve Visceral Pain in Animal Models of Urological Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (UCPPS)
This study is looking at how certain cells in the nervous system can be activated to help reduce the pain that comes with chronic pelvic pain syndrome, especially for those dealing with bladder issues, and it aims to find new treatment options that could eventually help people like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11140281 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific glial cells in the peripheral nervous system can be activated to help alleviate visceral pain associated with urological chronic pelvic pain syndrome. By focusing on satellite glial cells, the study aims to understand their role in regulating sensory neuron activity and how they contribute to pain sensations. The researchers will explore signaling pathways that could be targeted for gene therapies, potentially leading to new treatments for bladder dysfunction and related pain. The approach involves testing these mechanisms in animal models to gather insights that could translate into human therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing chronic pelvic pain or bladder dysfunction, particularly those with urological chronic pelvic pain syndrome.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain conditions or those not suffering from bladder-related issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that significantly reduce visceral pain and improve bladder function for patients suffering from chronic pelvic pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting glial cells for pain management, suggesting that this approach could be effective, although it is still an emerging area of study.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xie, Xiaoqiao — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Xie, Xiaoqiao
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.