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Updated: Nov 4, 2025

The Sciatic Nerve Cuffing Model of Neuropathic Pain in Mice
Published on: July 16, 2014
Driving effect of BDNF in the spinal dorsal horn on neuropathic pain
Wu Zhou1, Zhiping Xie1, Chengcai Li1
1Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330006, Jiangxi, China.
Abstract:
Neuropathic pain (NP) is caused by direct or indirect damage to the nervous system and is a common symptom of many diseases. The mechanisms underlying the onset and persistence of NP are unclear. Therefore, research concerning these mechanisms has become an important focus in the medical field. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophic factor family of signaling molecules. BDNF is an important regulator of neuronal development, synaptic transmission, and cellular and synaptic plasticity, which are essential for nerve maintenance and repair. However, BDNF is upregulated in the spinal dorsal horn and can promote NP by activating glial cells, reducing inhibitory functions and enhancing excitement after nociceptive stimulation. This review considers the relationship between NP and BDNF signaling in the spinal dorsal horn and discusses potentially related pathological mechanisms.
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