Epigenomic and Gene Expression Signatures of Racial Differences in Chronic Low Back Pain

University Of Alabama At Birmingham, Birmingham AL

Investigators

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Abstract

Project Summary The purpose of this research project is to provide research and career development training for Ms. Kiari R. Kinnie, a doctoral student in Nursing at University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). This administrative supplement, in response to PA-23-189: “Research Supplements to Promote Diversity in Health-Related Research”, will expand the RO1 funded parent project titled, “Epigenomic and Gene Expression Signatures of Chronic Low Back Pain (Aroke, PI). This supplement will support the final year of pre-doctoral education, training, research, and mentorship of an outstanding student who has obtained significant strides despite poverty and other significant adversities. Ms. Kinnie is a registered nurse with significant desire to cultivate research to mitigate pain disparities of disadvantaged populations. The primary aim of this research project is to determine the extent in which epigenetic modification’s influences the relationship between resilience and chronic low back pain (chronic LBP). Thus, we will examine how epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation and cortisol levels: 1) differ between individuals with high and low resilience and 2) how these levels predict chronic low back pain outcomes, such as functioning, disability, and pain severity, 3) differ between Black and white individuals. The career development component of this supplement will afford Ms. Kinnie with opportunities to acquire specific specialized research and educational training in Epigenetics, disseminate research at national and international conferences, and access multiple levels of mentorship. This administrative supplement will allow Ms. Kinnie an equal opportunity to become a successful independent researcher. This project will be overseen by primary mentor, Dr. Edwin Aroke, a minority researcher with clinical and research expertise in nursing, chronic pain, and epigenetic research. This expertise in combination, with Ms. Kinnie’s determination and passion for innovative nursing research, will provide Ms. Kinnie with the excellent foundation to pursue her own program of research.