Mechanism-based prediction of chronic post-stroke pain using advanced neuroimaging techniques

FUNDING: 10 weeks (full time, 37 hrs per week, £12 per hour, £1000 consumables)
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LOCATION: Liverpool, UK
SUPERVISOR(S):

Arnas Tamasauskas, Medical Sciences, Liverpool


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Stroke is an ever-present health condition that is increasing in prevalence as the world population ages. There are multiple complications that may arise secondary to stroke, but one particular pain condition, Central Post-Stroke Pain (CPSP), is particularly difficult to treat and carries a big burden on patient quality of life. The theory of pathophysiology, and diagnostic criteria of CPSP are still being investigated, which has left CPSP patients with inadequate treatment and understanding of their disorder. Our research project will aim to investigate biomarkers for CPSP using data-driven Diffusion Tensor Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Imaging and functional MRI analysis, research the roles of cytoarchitectonic areas BA1/BA3b and BA3a in the pain connectome in development of CPSP, and identify difference in BOLD activation patterns of CPSP and control patients in response to noxious and innocuous stimuli. Involvement in this project will include attending the Liverpool Magnetic Resonance Imaging Centre, working with research staff and radiographers in preparing participants, helping to carry out quantitative sensory testing, and learning data pre-processing and analysis pipelines. Students will be expected to present their findings orally at a research day in York in September 2024.