Central service project in KFO 5001

The NPZ project aims to enhance clinical pain research through a combination of high-level training and advanced methodological platforms. The goals are to qualify (Advanced) Clinician and Medical Scientists to become future principal investigators and to expand core platforms for imaging, skin analysis, and blood biomarker research.

Findings from the first funding period

During the previous funding period (FP1), the PZ established a qualification program for Clinician Scientists, developed advanced human dorsal root ganglion (DRG) magnetic resonance imaging techniques (MRI - structural and functional imaging), and built platforms for skin and blood biomarker analysis. The studies provided insights into neuropathic pain conditions like CRPS, chronic postsurgical surgical pain (CPSP following inguinal hernia repair), Bortezomib-induced peripheral neuropathy (BIPN), and neuropathic Pain induced by anti-Caspr2 autoantibodies, confirming DRG pathologies and defining biomarker profiles in skin biopsies and in the blood associated with pain persistence and resolution. 

Research Objective

• Education: Advance the training program for Advanced Clinician and Medical Scientists.
• Clinical Studies: Extend longitudinal studies on CRPS and CPSP to validate established and define novel predictors of pain resolution as a basis for future interventional trials.
• Imaging: Longitudinal DRG imaging in CRPS and CPSP patients using functional MRI (fMRI).
• Skin and Blood Analysis: Apply established analysis methods on the patient cohorts and introduce novel analytical techniques (including spatial transcriptomics, spectral flow cytometry and proteomics).

Significance

This project integrates advanced imaging, molecular profiling, and clinical research to deepen the understanding of pain mechanisms across different conditions. By strengthening training pathways and refining methodological platforms, the NPZ aims to advance the field of translational pain research and foster innovation. The project's findings may pave the way for personalized treatment strategies and innovative interventional studies, with the long-term goal of improving outcomes for patients suffering from chronic pain.