Using orexin to help manage chronic pain
Targeting spinal orexins to treat chronic pain
This study is looking at how certain brain cells that help control sleep and wakefulness might also affect chronic pain, and it hopes to find ways to block their signals to help reduce pain for people who suffer from it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11030416 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how orexin neurons in the brain influence chronic pain by sending signals to the spinal cord. It aims to understand the role of these neurons in pain transmission and how blocking their activity might reduce pain sensitivity. The study will utilize various physiological and behavioral methods to explore these connections and their potential impact on pain management. By focusing on the mechanisms of pain facilitation, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic targets for chronic pain relief.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic neuropathic pain.
Not a fit: Patients with acute pain or those whose pain is not related to neuropathic conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly reduce chronic pain for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting orexin pathways for pain management, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Stratton, Harrison James — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Stratton, Harrison James
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.