Evaluating the Role of Neuroinflammation in Low Back Pain

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

In this research, the study team will use brain imaging to evaluate the presence of neuroinflammation in the brains and spinal cords of patients with low back pain. The efficacy of minocycline use for low back pain treatment will also be evaluated by observing whether short-term minocycline administration will reduce neuroinflammation and low back pain symptoms.

Clinical Trial Description

The goal of this research study is to evaluate whether the central nervous systems of those with low back pain are different from those of healthy, pain-free individuals. Specifically, the researchers will test whether "glial cells" (the immune cells of the brain and spinal cord) are more active in patients with low back pain than in healthy volunteers. The investigators' previous study showed that patients with chronic low back pain demonstrated elevations in brain levels of the 18kDa translocator protein (TSPO), a marker of glial activation. To test this hypothesis, the study team will image the brains and spinal cords of patients suffering from low back pain using integrated magnetic resonance- positron emission tomography (MR-PET), and a radiotracer called [11C]PBR28, which tracks levels of glial activation. The efficacy of minocycline as a treatment for chronic low back pain will also be evaluated. A recent study demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in pain in those with lumbar radiculopathy after treatment with minocycline, leading the investigators of this study to believe that minocycline may have potential efficacy in treating other back pain populations. The study team will observe whether a short course of minocycline hydrochloride may reduce glial activation along with self-reported low back pain symptoms. To this end, patients will be evaluated clinically and/or re-scanned after completing a 2-week trial of minocycline or placebo (a sugar pill). This study will be enrolling individuals who have been suffering from sub-acute (short-term) and chronic low back pain. ;

Study Design

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

Clinical Trial Details

NCT number	NCT03106740
Study type	Interventional
Source	Massachusetts General Hospital
Contact
Status	Completed
Phase	Phase 2
Start date	October 10, 2017
Completion date	April 30, 2024

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Clinical trials are conducted in a series of steps, called phases - each phase is designed to answer a separate research question.

Phase 1: Researchers test a new drug or treatment in a small group of people for the first time to evaluate its safety, determine a safe dosage range, and identify side effects.
Phase 2: The drug or treatment is given to a larger group of people to see if it is effective and to further evaluate its safety.
Phase 3: The drug or treatment is given to large groups of people to confirm its effectiveness, monitor side effects, compare it to commonly used treatments, and collect information that will allow the drug or treatment to be used safely.
Phase 4: Studies are done after the drug or treatment has been marketed to gather information on the drug's effect in various populations and any side effects associated with long-term use.

Evaluating the Role of Neuroinflammation in Low Back Pain — IGNITE

Clinical Trial Summary

Clinical Trial Description

Study Design

Related Conditions & MeSH terms