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Purinergic system, microglia and neuropathic pain
Makoto Tsuda1, Hidetoshi Tozaki-Saitoh, Kazuhide Inoue
1Department of Molecular and System Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyushu University, 3-1-1 Maidashi, Higashi, Fukuoka 812-8582, Japan.
Current Opinion in Pharmacology
|November 1, 2011
Summary
Microglia purinergic receptors (P2XRs and P2YRs) in the spinal cord are crucial for neuropathic pain signaling. Targeting these receptors offers a promising strategy for pain management.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Extracellular nucleotides modulate nervous system functions via P2X receptors (P2XRs) and P2Y receptors (P2YRs).
- Microglia, the immune cells of the central nervous system, express various P2XRs and P2YRs.
- These microglial receptors are implicated in spinal cord pain signaling, particularly in neuropathic pain.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding the role of microglial purinergic receptors in neuropathic pain.
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which these receptors contribute to pain pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on microglial purinergic signaling in neuropathic pain models.
- Analysis of studies investigating the function and expression of P2XRs and P2YRs in activated spinal cord microglia.
Main Results:
- Peripheral nerve injury leads to microglial activation and upregulation of purinergic receptors in the dorsal horn.
- Interference with microglial P2XR and P2YR function or expression significantly reduces neuropathic pain.
Conclusions:
- Microglial purinergic receptors are key players in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain.
- Targeting these receptors represents a potential therapeutic avenue for managing neuropathic pain.
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