Researchers at Stanford Medicine developed an experimental model that recreates a neural pathway involved in transmitting pain signals. This breakthrough provides new opportunities to understand how sensory information travels from the skin to the brain and could contribute to developing more effective treatments for chronic pain disorders.
The research team, led by Sergiu Pașca, used human stem cells to create four interconnected neural structures called organoids. These structures represent the dorsal root ganglion, spinal cord, thalamus, and somatosensory cortex. By combining them, scientists successfully developed a functional neural circuit capable of transmitting electrical signals between different regions.
During the experiments, researchers examined how neural signals traveled through the circuit and investigated how genetic modifications could affect sensory processing. Their findings highlighted the importance of the sodium channel Nav1.7 in pain signaling, providing valuable insights into the biological mechanisms involved in pain perception and sensitivity.
This discovery represents a significant advancement in neuroscience and biomedical research. The experimental model allows scientists to investigate human neural circuits under controlled laboratory conditions. Although the technology remains in its early stages, it could support the development of more targeted medications and improve future treatments for individuals experiencing chronic pain.
Reference
- Goldman, B. (2025, April 9). Neural pathway advance could accelerate process for treating pain. Stanford Report. https://news.stanford.edu/stories/2025/04/neural-pathway-lab-research-pain-disorder-treatmen