Immune control of pain

Area of Science:

• Neuroimmunology
• Pain Research
• Immunology

Background:

• Pain is increasingly recognized as a neuroimmune condition involving intricate interactions between immune cells and the somatosensory system.
• Immune cells play a critical role in the initiation, sensitization, and resolution of pain.
• Neuroimmune pathways are central to understanding pain persistence and developing novel treatments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To elucidate the immunological pathways involved in pain modulation.
• To illustrate the contribution of immune cells and mediators to pain persistence.
• To explore emerging therapeutic prospects targeting neuroimmune interactions for pain management.

Main Methods:

• This review synthesizes current research on the role of innate and adaptive immune cells in pain.
• It examines the mechanisms of peripheral and central sensitization, and the concept of immunoception.
• The review discusses various therapeutic strategies targeting the immune system for pain resolution.

Main Results:

• Innate and adaptive immune cells (e.g., macrophages, T cells, B cells, neutrophils, mast cells, NK cells) modulate pain via pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory pathways.
• Neuroimmune interactions are crucial for pain perception, as highlighted by peripheral/central sensitization and immunoception.
• Targeting immune pathways, including cytokine inhibitors, IL-2, JAK inhibitors, vagus nerve stimulation, and microbiota modulation, shows promise for pain resolution.

Conclusions:

• Pain modulation is driven by complex neuroimmune interactions where immune cells act as both pain triggers and regulators.
• A comprehensive understanding of these neuroimmune mechanisms opens new therapeutic avenues for chronic pain.
• Targeting immune pathways holds significant potential for preventing and managing chronic pain, particularly in rheumatic disorders.