University of California-San Francisco · PhysiologyNociception and Pain Research Unit
David Julius · San Francisco, California
Research Focus
Dr. David Julius's lab at UCSF focuses on understanding how we perceive pain through the study of specialized nerve fibers called nociceptors. His team investigates the molecular and physiological mechanisms that allow these nociceptors to detect harmful stimuli and transmit pain signals, especially in the context of chronic pain conditions like arthritis and gastrointestinal disorders. By combining advanced techniques from structural biology to integrative physiology, the lab aims to contribute to the development of new pain therapies and improve patients' quality of life.
nociceptionpain mechanismschronic painnerve fiberspain sensitivity
Research Aims
5AIM 01Identify molecules that contribute to nociception.
AIM 02Characterize the mechanisms of nociceptor activation.
AIM 03Explore the differences in pain perception based on sex and age.
AIM 04Evaluate the impact of chronic pain on quality of life.
AIM 05Develop novel analgesic therapies for managing pain.
Skills the Lab Values
PCRcell culturemouse modelselectron cryo-microscopysingle cell sequencing
Output against the department
Publications232top 25% of dept.71st of 286
this lab
most publishedleast published
Citations73ktop 2% of dept.5th of 286
this lab
most citedleast cited
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