Evolution of mirror-image pain in temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis mouse model

Nattapon Rotpenpian1,2, Sompol Tapechum1, Anchalee Vattarakorn1

  • 1Mahidol University, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Department of Physiology, Bangkok, Thailand.

Abstract

Insights

Mirror-image pain, occurring on the opposite side of injury, was successfully modeled in mice with unilateral temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis. This model aids in studying pain mechanisms and developing new treatments.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pain Research
  • Animal Models

Background:

  • Mirror-image pain, a contralateral sensation, lacks clear understanding of its pathogenesis.
  • Investigating mirror-image pain requires a reliable animal model.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop a mouse model of unilateral temporomandibular joint (TMJ) osteoarthritis.
  • To investigate mirror-image pain using nocifensive behaviors, histological changes, and nociceptive activity.

Main Methods:

  • Unilateral TMJ osteoarthritis was chemically induced in mice.
  • Nocifensive behaviors were assessed using mechanical and thermal stimuli.
  • Histological analysis and measurement of phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element binding protein (pCREB) and microglia markers were performed.

Main Results:

  • Contralateral nocifensive behaviors intensified by day 28 post-induction.
  • Elevated pCREB and microglia markers in the trigeminal subnucleus caudalis correlated with behavioral changes.
  • Hypernociception on the contralateral side was confirmed at day 28.

Conclusions:

  • The developed TMJ osteoarthritis model effectively exhibits mirror-image pain.
  • This model is valuable for exploring the pathogenesis of mirror-image pain.
  • The model provides a platform for testing novel pain therapies.

Related Concept Videos