Analyzing BDNF Levels in Chronic Pain vs. Asymptomatic Patients

Differences in Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Levels Between Chronic and Asymptomatic Pain Patients

Universidad Autonoma de Madrid · NCT05736575

This study looks at the differences in a brain protein called BDNF between people with chronic pain and those without pain to help understand more about chronic pain and how treatments like physiotherapy might work.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment66 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversidad Autonoma de Madrid (other)
Locations1 site (Madrid)
Trial IDNCT05736575 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to compare the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) between individuals suffering from chronic musculoskeletal pain and asymptomatic individuals. By analyzing BDNF levels, the researchers hope to uncover molecular differences that may contribute to chronic pain conditions. This could lead to a better understanding of brain plasticity in chronic pain patients and help in evaluating the effectiveness of physiotherapy interventions. Participants will undergo BDNF analysis using an Elisa kit to measure these levels accurately.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are males and females aged 18 to 65 with chronic musculoskeletal pain lasting at least 3 months.

Not a fit: Patients with systemic, neurological, oncological, or inflammatory diseases, as well as those with psychiatric conditions or type II diabetes, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide insights into the biological mechanisms of chronic pain, potentially leading to improved treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of comparing BDNF levels in chronic pain versus asymptomatic individuals may be novel, studies have previously linked BDNF to pain mechanisms, suggesting potential for meaningful insights.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* males and females aged 18 to 65 years with musculoskeletal pain for a minimum of 3 months
* patients recruited by information pamphlets from the university clinic of the Rey Juan Carlos University, and CSEU La Salle
* not having received physiotherapy treatment for this same process in the last 3 months.
* ability to perform all the clinical tests and to understand the study process, as well as to obtain informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Systemic, neurological, oncological or inflammatory diseases; psychiatric pathologies, pregnancy, type II diabetes.

Where this trial is running

Madrid

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Chronic Pain, BDNF

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.