PRICE Researcher Awarded Grant
Congratulations to Pedro Valdes Hernandez, who has received a five year Career Development K01 NIH/NIA grant towards supporting research focused on the application of deep-learning techniques to develop brain age biomarkers. These biomarkers are poised to revolutionize the way chronic pain is categorized, offering a more nuanced and precise approach to understanding different types of chronic pain conditions. By leveraging advanced deep-learning algorithms, the project aims to uncover distinctive brain age patterns associated with various chronic pain syndromes, potentially leading to more personalized and effective treatment strategies!
New Breakthroughs in Osteoarthritis Pain
Osteoarthritis is a common and painful condition that affects joints. In a study published this past April, members of PRICE, sought to understand the changes in joint structure, sensitivity to touch, and brain function that occur in a rodent model of osteoarthritis. These individuals included Kyle Allen, Marcelo Febo, Yenisel Cruz-Almeida, Pedro Valdes Hernandez and Jacob Griffith.
During the study, rodents were surgically induced with osteoarthritis in the knee joints to mimic human conditions. The structure of the joint was assessed for changes in sensitivity as well as brain function.
It was found that induced rodents suffered increased sensitivity to touch, indicating heightened discomfort and pain. They also suffered from damage to the cartilage, formation of bone spurs, and inflammation as well as changes in brain functioning.
The study concluded that osteoarthritis not only affects the joints but also has significant impacts on how pain is perceived and processed, involving changes in the brain. This suggests that osteoarthritis is a complex condition that affects the entire body, not just the joints.
The article, “Surgical Rodent Model of Osteoarthritis Alters Joint Structure, Tactile Sensitivity, and the Brain” has been published in The Journal of Pain. Follow the link to learn more!