Synaptic and molecular mechanisms of glutamatergic synapses in pain and memory

Glutamate is a fast excitatory transmitter in mammalian brains. Glutamatergic synapses are found in central regions related to pain transmission, plasticity and modulation. Glutamate NMDA receptors in forebrain structures are well known to contribute to the formation and storage of information. Here we propose the hypothesis that forebrain NMDA receptors play an important role in persistent inflammatory pain by re-enforcing glutamate sensory transmission in the brain. Mice with enhanced function of forebrain NMDA receptors demonstrate selective enhancement of persistent pain and allodynia. Drugs targeting forebrain NMDA NR2B receptors may serve as a new class of medicine to control persistent pain in humans.