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Peripheral sensitization of sensory neurons
1Department of Medicine, Charles Drew University of Medicine & Science, Los Angeles, California 90095, USA. victorchaban@cdrewu.edu
Ethnicity & Disease
|June 4, 2010
Summary
Sensory neurons in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) can be sensitized by adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and substance P. This sensitization, potentially occurring within the ganglion, may contribute to pain transmission and offers therapeutic targets.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pain Research
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Understanding nociception (pain signaling) is crucial for pain management.
- Inflammation can cause cross-sensitivity between organs via neuronal sensitization.
- The precise location of visceral cross-sensitivity remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the cellular responses of sensory neurons to adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and substance P.
- To explore the role of these substances in neuronal sensitization within the context of visceral pain.
Main Methods:
- Immunocytochemistry was used to detect substance P receptors in lumbosacral dorsal root ganglia (DRG) slices.
- Primary cultures of DRG neurons were utilized for intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) measurements via videomicroscopy.
Main Results:
- DRG neurons were confirmed to express substance P receptors.
- Both ATP (5 microM) and substance P (10 microM) significantly enhanced subsequent ATP-induced stimulation in the same neuron, indicating sensitization.
Conclusions:
- Sensitization of DRG neurons innervating different organs may involve the release of nociceptive transmitters like ATP and substance P within the ganglion.
- These findings enhance understanding of peripheral sensitization in nociceptive transmission.
- Potential peripheral targets for therapeutic intervention in pain management are suggested.
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