The University of Florida’s Center for Advanced Pain Therapeutics Research (CAPToR) kicked off its new seminar series on December 12 with a groundbreaking talk by Dr. Michael Gold of the University of Pittsburgh. His presentation on the mechanisms of trigeminal neuralgia set the stage for an initiative aimed at fostering collaboration and advancing pain research at UF.
On Friday, December 12, 2025, the University of Florida proudly hosted Dr. Michael Gold, Professor of Neurobiology at the University of Pittsburgh, for the inaugural session of the Center for Advanced Pain Therapeutics Research (CAPToR) Seminar Series. This landmark event marks the beginning of a new initiative designed to bring leading experts in pain research to UF, fostering collaboration and advancing the understanding of chronic pain mechanisms.
Dr. Gold delivered a compelling presentation titled “Mechanisms of Trigeminal Neuralgia,” a topic of critical importance in the field of pain research. Trigeminal neuralgia is a severe and often debilitating condition characterized by sudden, intense facial pain. Despite its impact on patients’ quality of life, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Dr. Gold’s talk provided a deep dive into the neurobiological processes that contribute to this disorder, highlighting recent discoveries in peripheral and central sensitization, ion channel dysfunction, and the role of inflammatory mediators.
The seminar attracted a diverse audience of faculty, postdoctoral researchers, graduate students, and clinicians from across UF’s neuroscience and pain research community. Attendees engaged in discussion during Q&A after the talk, reflecting the growing interest in translational approaches to pain management. Dr. Gold emphasized the importance of bridging basic science and clinical practice, noting that advances in understanding trigeminal neuralgia could lead to more effective and targeted therapies for patients.
What this means for CAPToR:
The launch of the CAPToR Seminar Series represents a significant step forward for the center’s mission: to accelerate discoveries in pain biology and translate them into innovative treatments. By hosting leaders in pain science like Dr. Gold, CAPToR aims to create a dynamic environment for scientific exchange, spark new collaborations, and inspire the next generation of pain researchers.
Looking Ahead:
This inaugural seminar sets the tone for future sessions, which will feature experts from diverse disciplines, including molecular neuroscience, pharmacology, and clinical pain management. CAPToR is committed to making these seminars a cornerstone of its outreach and education efforts, ensuring that UF remains at the forefront of pain research.
Stay Connected!
For updates on upcoming seminars and CAPToR initiatives, revisit our CAPToR website! Together, we can advance the science of pain and improve lives.