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Updated: Sep 8, 2026

Development of Recombinant Proteins to Treat Chronic Pain
Published on: April 11, 2018
Role of T Cells in Chronic Pain: Mechanisms, Regulation, and Therapeutic Implications
Yuanyuan Li1,2, Ruihan Yang2, Shipeng Wei2
1Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China.
Abstract:
T cells are critical for controlling the adaptive immune response and maintaining the homeostasis of the body. Recent evidence suggests that T cells are involved in the initiation, maintenance, and resolution of chronic pain by releasing mediators such as cytokines and endogenous opioids. In this review, we highlight recent advances in the involvement of T cells in chronic pain. We also describe how T cells act on sensory neurons to promote, suppress, or even resolve pain. Finally, we review how T cells are regulated and how we can translate these findings to develop therapies for chronic pain.
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