Orofacial Pain Conditions & Neuroscience Program
Overview
The Orofacial Pain Conditions and Neuroscience Program supports basic and translational research on orofacial pain and neuropathies; temporomandibular joint and muscle disorders; development of biomarkers for diagnostics and prognostics; and development of therapeutics. Basic and translational studies on nervous system mechanisms and/or regulation in craniofacial conditions and disorders are also of interest. In addition, the program encourages research that is responsive to trans-NIH initiatives including the NIH Helping to End Addiction Long-term (HEAL) Initiative, the NIH Neuroscience Blueprint, and the NIH Common Fund. Relevant research topics include, but are not limited to:
- Elucidation of mechanisms used by the nervous system to detect and regulate the functional and dysfunctional state of orofacial tissues
- The study of reciprocal peripheral and central nervous system mechanisms as it relates to atypical, persistent, or chronic orofacial pain
- Research on the pathogenesis of pain in craniofacial tissues, including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory muscles
- Development of improved biomarkers for the assessment of neuropathic conditions and neurodegenerative conditions affecting oral and craniofacial tissues and structures including the TMJ
- Studies on the role of the nervous, immune, and circulatory systems—and their interactions—on the pathophysiology of pain, tissue dysfunction, jaw function, or degeneration from orofacial and craniofacial disorders
- Design and development of controlled release delivery systems for both conventional and new drugs at specific target sites to alleviate orofacial pain and inflammation
- Pre-clinical development of non-opioid therapeutics for acute post-operative pain related to orofacial tumor resection, dental procedures, facial reconstruction, or other surgical procedures
Related Resources
Staff Contact
Program Officer
Orofacial Pain Conditions & Neuroscience