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Updated: Jan 28, 2026

The Sciatic Nerve Cuffing Model of Neuropathic Pain in Mice
Published on: July 16, 2014
Sensitized vasoactive C-nociceptors: key fibers in peripheral neuropathic pain
Julia Forstenpointner1, Dennis Naleschinski1, Gunnar Wasner1,2
1Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Kiel, Germany.
Introduction:
Multiple mechanisms are involved in the development and persistence of neuropathic pain. Some patients with nerve damage will remain painless and develop a "loss of function" phenotype, whereas others develop painful neuropathies.
Objectives:
The aim of this study is to investigate the role of a peripheral nervous system sensitization by analyzing patients with and without pain.
Methods:
The topical application of capsaicin was investigated in peripheral nociceptors. Two groups of patients (painful vs painless) with length-dependent neuropathies and small-fiber impairment were tested. Quantitative sensory testing was assessed before and after topical application of 0.6% capsaicin in the affected skin. In addition, blood perfusion measurements and an axon reflex flare assessment were performed.
Results:
Quantitative testing revealed that heat hyperalgesia was induced in all patients and volunteers (P < 0.01) without observing any significant differences between patient groups. By contrast, the extent of the axon reflex flare reaction (P < 0.01) as well as the blood perfusion (P < 0.05) was significantly greater in patients with pain than in neuropathy patients not experiencing pain.
Conclusion:
Hyperexcitable vasoactive nociceptive C fibers might contribute to pain in peripheral neuropathies and therefore may serve as a key player in separating into a painless or painful condition.
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