Pain Management
USF Health studies suggest new opioid-receptor signaling step could guide development of safer painkillers
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Researchers at USF Health report evidence that an early step in mu opioid receptor signaling can run in reverse, and that certain experimental compounds can enhance morphine- and fentanyl-driven pain relief in lab tests without increasing respiratory suppression at very low doses. The findings, published Dec. 17 in Nature and Nature Communications, are framed as a blueprint for designing longer-lasting opioids with fewer risks, though the newly tested molecules are not considered clinical drug candidates.
A comprehensive review of clinical trials indicates that tramadol, a widely prescribed opioid for chronic pain, offers only slight relief that may not be noticeable to many patients. However, it significantly increases the risk of serious side effects, particularly heart-related issues. Researchers recommend minimizing its use due to these concerns.
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SereNeuro Therapeutics has reported promising preclinical data for SN101, an induced pluripotent stem cell-based therapy for chronic osteoarthritis pain. The treatment uses engineered peripheral pain-sensing neurons that sequester inflammatory pain factors without transmitting pain signals, while releasing regenerative molecules that may help preserve cartilage, according to data presented at an International Society for Stem Cell Research symposium.