Neuroscience of Orofacial Pain & Temporomandibular Disorders Program
Overview
The Neuroscience of Orofacial Pain and Temporomandibular Disorders 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 Pain Consortium, 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/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
- Preclinical 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 Contacts
Director
Neuroscience of Orofacial Pain & Temporomandibular Disorders Program