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Behavioural Characterisation and Pharmacological Validation of an Incisional Wound-Related Pain Model
Catherine R Healy1,2,3,4, Maria C Redmond1,2,3,4, Mary Hopkins1,2,3
1Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, Institute for Health Discovery and Innovation, University of Galway, Galway City, Ireland.
European Journal of Pain (London, England)
|May 8, 2026
Summary
A new preclinical model of incisional wound pain in rats shows sex differences in pain hypersensitivity. This validated model aids in understanding wound pain mechanisms and developing new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Preclinical pain research
- Animal models of pain
- Sex differences in pain
Background:
- Wound-related pain is a significant clinical challenge.
- Validated preclinical models are crucial for advancing pain research.
- Existing models may not fully capture sex-specific pain responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To validate a preclinical model for incisional wound-related pain in both male and female rats.
- To investigate the temporal profile of pain hypersensitivity following an incision.
- To assess the efficacy of morphine in mitigating pain behaviors.
Main Methods:
- A 1.2 cm incision was made on the dorsum of male and female Sprague-Dawley rats.
- Mechanical withdrawal thresholds were measured for 34 days post-incision.
- Morphine's effect on hypersensitivity was evaluated in male rats on post-incision day 8.
Main Results:
- Significant mechanical hypersensitivity was observed up to 14 days in males and 7 days in females.
- Sex differences in the temporal profile of hypersensitivity were noted.
- Morphine administration significantly reduced hypersensitivity in both the incision site and hind paws.
Conclusions:
- The dorsum incision model effectively replicates incisional wound pain.
- The model demonstrates sex differences in pain-related behaviors.
- This validated model facilitates preclinical investigation of wound pain mechanisms and therapeutics.
