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The prokineticin system: an interface between neural inflammation and pain
Silvia Franchi1, Paola Sacerdote1, Alberto Panerai2
1Dipartimento di Scienze Farmacologiche e Biomolecolari, Università degli Studi Milano, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Prokineticins (PK) and their receptors (PKR) are involved in pain and inflammation. Blocking this system offers a promising therapeutic strategy for conditions involving inflammation and pain.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroscience
- Immunology
Background:
- Prokineticins (PK) 1 and 2 are chemokines interacting with Prokineticin Receptors (PKR) 1 and 2.
- The PK system is widely distributed and regulates diverse biological functions, notably inflammation and nociception.
- PKRs are found in pain-associated nervous system regions and colocalize with TRPV1 in primary sensory neurons, suggesting a role in nociceptor sensitization.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the prokineticin system in inflammation and pain.
- To explore the potential of blocking the prokineticin system as a therapeutic strategy.
Main Methods:
- The study established the role of the PK system in inflammation and nociception.
- Analysis of PKRs expression in pain-associated neural pathways.
- Investigation of PK upregulation in immune and glial cells during inflammation.
Main Results:
- Prokineticins (PK) and Prokineticin Receptors (PKR) are implicated in pain and inflammation pathways.
- PKRs are expressed in pain-related brain regions and sensory neurons, interacting with TRPV1.
- PKs are upregulated in immune and glial cells, promoting a proinflammatory loop.
Conclusions:
- The prokineticin system plays a significant role in mediating inflammation and pain.
- Targeting the prokineticin system presents a promising therapeutic avenue for managing inflammatory pain conditions.
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