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He WC, Hou SL, Wang KB, Xu N, Li K, Xiong T, Luo J. Treadmill running on neuropathic pain: via modulation of neuroinflammation. Front Mol Neurosci 2024; 17:1345864. [PMID: 38989156 PMCID: PMC11233809 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1345864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain caused by an injury or somatosensory nervous system disease. Drugs and exercise could effectively relieve neuropathic pain, but no treatment can completely stop neuropathic pain. The integration of exercise into neuropathic pain management has attracted considerable interest in recent years, and treadmill training is the most used among exercise therapies. Neuropathic pain can be effectively treated if its mechanism is clarified. In recent years, the association between neuroinflammation and neuropathic pain has been explored. Neuroinflammation can trigger proinflammatory cytokines, activate microglia, inhibit descending pain modulatory systems, and promote the overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor, which lead to the generation of neuropathic pain and hypersensitivity. Treadmill exercise can alleviate neuropathic pain mainly by regulating neuroinflammation, including inhibiting the activity of pro-inflammatory factors and over activation of microglia in the dorsal horn, regulating the expression of mu opioid receptor expression in the rostral ventromedial medulla and levels of γ-aminobutyric acid to activate the descending pain modulatory system and the overexpression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor. This article reviews and summarizes research on the effect of treadmill exercise on neuropathic pain and its role in the regulation of neuroinflammation to explore its benefits for neuropathic pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei-Chun He
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Shuang-Long Hou
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Xi’an Physical Education University, Xi’an, China
| | - Kai-Bin Wang
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ning Xu
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ke Li
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Ting Xiong
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
| | - Jing Luo
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, General Hospital of NingXia Medical University, Yinchuan, China
- Department of Sport Rehabilitation, Xi’an Physical Education University, Xi’an, China
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Wang L, Zhao R, Li X, Shao P, Xie J, Su X, Xu S, Huang Y, Hu S. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG improves cognitive impairments in mice with sepsis. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17427. [PMID: 38827289 PMCID: PMC11141560 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Survivors of sepsis may encounter cognitive impairment following their recovery from critical condition. At present, there is no standardized treatment for addressing sepsis-associated encephalopathy. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) is a prevalent bacterium found in the gut microbiota and is an active component of probiotic supplements. LGG has demonstrated to be associated with cognitive improvement. This study explored whether LGG administration prior to and following induced sepsis could ameliorate cognitive deficits, and explored potential mechanisms. Methods Female C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into three groups: sham surgery, cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), and CLP+LGG. Cognitive behavior was assessed longitudinally at 7-9d, 14-16d, and 21-23d after surgery using an open field test and novel object recognition test. The impact of LGG treatment on pathological changes, the expression level of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and the phosphorylation level of the TrkB receptor (p-TrkB) in the hippocampus of mice at two weeks post-CLP (16d) were evaluated using histological, immunofluorescence, immunohistochemistry, and western blot analyses. Results The CLP surgery induced and sustained cognitive impairment in mice with sepsis for a minimum of three weeks following the surgery. Compared to mice subjected to CLP alone, the administration of LGG improved the survival of mice with sepsis and notably enhanced their cognitive functioning. Moreover, LGG supplementation significantly alleviated the decrease in hippocampal BDNF expression and p-TrkB phosphorylation levels caused by sepsis, preserving neuronal survival and mitigating the pathological changes within the hippocampus of mice with sepsis. LGG supplementation mitigates sepsis-related cognitive impairment in mice and preserves BDNF expression and p-TrkB levels in the hippocampus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linxiao Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Rui Zhao
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xuemei Li
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Pei Shao
- School of Nursing, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jiangang Xie
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Xiangni Su
- School of Nursing, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Sijia Xu
- School of Nursing, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yang Huang
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Shanbo Hu
- School of Nursing, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China
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Ando H, Shimizu-Okabe C, Okura N, Yafuso T, Kosaka Y, Kobayashi S, Okabe A, Takayama C. Reduced Gene Expression of KCC2 Accelerates Axonal Regeneration and Reduces Motor Dysfunctions after Tibial Nerve Severance and Suturing. Neuroscience 2024; 551:55-68. [PMID: 38788828 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuroscience.2024.05.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
Gamma-aminobutyric acid and glycine (GABA/Gly) are predominantly inhibitory neurotransmitters in the mature central nervous system; however, they mediate membrane potential depolarization during development. These differences in actions depend on intracellular Cl- concentrations ([Cl-]i), which are primarily regulated by potassium chloride cotransporter 2 (KCC2). After nerve injury, KCC2 expression markedly decreases and GABA/Gly mediate depolarization. Following nerve regeneration, KCC2 expression recovers and GABA/Gly become inhibitory, suggesting that KCC2 reduction and GABA/Gly excitation may be crucial for axonal regeneration. To directly clarify their involvement in regeneration, we analyzed recovery processes after tibial nerve severance and suturing between heterozygous KCC2 knockout mice (HT), whose KCC2 levels are halved, and their wild-type littermates (WT). Compared with WT mice, the sciatic functional index-indicating lower limb motor function-was significantly higher until 28 days after operation (D28) in HT mice. Furthermore, at D7, many neurofilament-positive fibers were elongated into the distal part of the sutured nerve in HT mice only, and myelinated axonal density was significantly higher at D21 and D28 in HT animals. Electron microscopy and galanin immunohistochemistry indicated a shorter nerve degeneration period in HT mice. Moreover, a less severe decrease in choline acetyltransferase was observed in HT mice. These results suggest that nerve degeneration and regeneration proceed more rapidly in HT mice, resulting in milder motor dysfunction. Via similar microglial activation, nerve surgery may reduce KCC2 levels more rapidly in HT mice, followed by earlier increased [Cl-]i and longer-lasting GABA/Gly excitation. Taken together, reduced KCC2 may accelerate nerve regeneration via GABA/Gly excitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hironobu Ando
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan
| | - Chigusa Shimizu-Okabe
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan
| | - Nobuhiko Okura
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Yafuso
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan
| | - Yoshinori Kosaka
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan
| | - Shiori Kobayashi
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan
| | - Akihito Okabe
- Department of Nutritional Science, Faculty of Health and Welfare, Seinan Jo Gakuin University, Fukuoka 803-0835, Japan
| | - Chitoshi Takayama
- Department of Molecular Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, University of the Ryukyus, Uehara 207, Nishihara, Okinawa 9030215, Japan.
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Merighi A. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor, Nociception, and Pain. Biomolecules 2024; 14:539. [PMID: 38785946 PMCID: PMC11118093 DOI: 10.3390/biom14050539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 04/26/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
This article examines the involvement of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the control of nociception and pain. BDNF, a neurotrophin known for its essential role in neuronal survival and plasticity, has garnered significant attention for its potential implications as a modulator of synaptic transmission. This comprehensive review aims to provide insights into the multifaceted interactions between BDNF and pain pathways, encompassing both physiological and pathological pain conditions. I delve into the molecular mechanisms underlying BDNF's involvement in pain processing and discuss potential therapeutic applications of BDNF and its mimetics in managing pain. Furthermore, I highlight recent advancements and challenges in translating BDNF-related research into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adalberto Merighi
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, 10095 Turin, Italy
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Xie J, Wang L, Xu Y, Ma Y, Zhang L, Yin W, Huang Y. Exertional heat stroke-induced changes in gut microbiota cause cognitive impairment in mice. BMC Microbiol 2024; 24:134. [PMID: 38654189 PMCID: PMC11040997 DOI: 10.1186/s12866-024-03276-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The incidence of exertional heat stroke (EHS) escalates during periods of elevated temperatures, potentially leading to persistent cognitive impairment postrecovery. Currently, effective prophylactic or therapeutic measures against EHS are nonexistent. METHODS The selection of days 14 and 23 postinduction for detailed examination was guided by TEM of neuronal cells and HE staining of intestinal villi and the hippocampal regions. Fecal specimens from the ileum and cecum at these designated times were analyzed for changes in gut microbiota and metabolic products. Bioinformatic analyses facilitated the identification of pivotal microbial species and metabolites. The influence of supplementing these identified microorganisms on behavioral outcomes and the expression of functional proteins within the hippocampus was subsequently assessed. RESULTS TEM analyses of neurons, coupled with HE staining of intestinal villi and the hippocampal region, indicated substantial recovery in intestinal morphology and neuronal injury on Day 14, indicating this time point for subsequent microbial and metabolomic analyses. Notably, a reduction in the Lactobacillaceae family, particularly Lactobacillus murinus, was observed. Functional annotation of 16S rDNA sequences suggested diminished lipid metabolism and glycan biosynthesis and metabolism in EHS models. Mice receiving this intervention (EHS + probiotics group) exhibited markedly reduced cognitive impairment and increased expression of BDNF/TrKB pathway molecules in the hippocampus during behavioral assessment on Day 28. CONCLUSION Probiotic supplementation, specifically with Lactobacillus spp., appears to mitigate EHS-induced cognitive impairment, potentially through the modulation of the BDNF/TrKB signaling pathway within the hippocampus, illustrating the therapeutic potential of targeting the gut-brain axis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiangang Xie
- Department of Interventional Vascular, Xi'an No.3 Hospital, the Affiliated Hospital of Northwest University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710018, China
| | - Linxiao Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest University, Xi'an, 710127, China
| | - Yunyun Xu
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710000, China
| | - Yuexiang Ma
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710000, China
| | - Lingqin Zhang
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710000, China
| | - Wen Yin
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710000, China.
| | - Yang Huang
- Department of Emergency, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University, Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, 710000, China.
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Xiong HY, Hendrix J, Schabrun S, Wyns A, Campenhout JV, Nijs J, Polli A. The Role of the Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Chronic Pain: Links to Central Sensitization and Neuroinflammation. Biomolecules 2024; 14:71. [PMID: 38254671 PMCID: PMC10813479 DOI: 10.3390/biom14010071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is sustained, in part, through the intricate process of central sensitization (CS), marked by maladaptive neuroplasticity and neuronal hyperexcitability within central pain pathways. Accumulating evidence suggests that CS is also driven by neuroinflammation in the peripheral and central nervous system. In any chronic disease, the search for perpetuating factors is crucial in identifying therapeutic targets and developing primary preventive strategies. The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) emerges as a critical regulator of synaptic plasticity, serving as both a neurotransmitter and neuromodulator. Mounting evidence supports BDNF's pro-nociceptive role, spanning from its pain-sensitizing capacity across multiple levels of nociceptive pathways to its intricate involvement in CS and neuroinflammation. Moreover, consistently elevated BDNF levels are observed in various chronic pain disorders. To comprehensively understand the profound impact of BDNF in chronic pain, we delve into its key characteristics, focusing on its role in underlying molecular mechanisms contributing to chronic pain. Additionally, we also explore the potential utility of BDNF as an objective biomarker for chronic pain. This discussion encompasses emerging therapeutic approaches aimed at modulating BDNF expression, offering insights into addressing the intricate complexities of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan-Yu Xiong
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Jolien Hendrix
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Siobhan Schabrun
- The School of Physical Therapy, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada;
- The Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity, Parkwood Institute, London, ON N6A 4V2, Canada
| | - Arne Wyns
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Jente Van Campenhout
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
| | - Jo Nijs
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
- Chronic Pain Rehabilitation, Department of Physical Medicine and Physiotherapy, University Hospital Brussels, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Health and Rehabilitation, Unit of Physiotherapy, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 41390 Göterbog, Sweden
| | - Andrea Polli
- Pain in Motion Research Group (PAIN), Department of Physiotherapy, Human Physiology and Anatomy, Faculty of Physical Education & Physiotherapy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; (H.-Y.X.); (J.H.); (A.W.); (J.V.C.); (A.P.)
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Centre for Environment & Health, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Research Foundation—Flanders (FWO), 1000 Brussels, Belgium
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Thakkar B, Acevedo EO. BDNF as a biomarker for neuropathic pain: Consideration of mechanisms of action and associated measurement challenges. Brain Behav 2023; 13:e2903. [PMID: 36722793 PMCID: PMC10013954 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.2903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The primary objective of this paper is to (1) provide a summary of human studies that have used brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) as a biomarker, (2) review animal studies that help to elucidate the mechanistic involvement of BDNF in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain (NP), and (3) provide a critique of the existing measurement techniques to highlight the limitations of the methods utilized to quantify BDNF in different biofluids in the blood (i.e., serum and plasma) with the intention of presenting a case for the most reliable and valid technique. Lastly, this review also explores potential moderators that can influence the measurement of BDNF and provides recommendations to standardize its quantification to reduce the inconsistencies across studies. METHODS In this manuscript we examined the literature on BDNF, focusing on its role as a biomarker, its mechanism of action in NP, and critically analyzed its measurement in serum and plasma to identify factors that contribute to the discrepancy in results between plasma and serum BDNF values. RESULTS A large heterogenous literature was reviewed that detailed BDNF's utility as a potential biomarker in healthy volunteers, patients with chronic pain, and patients with neuropsychiatric disorders but demonstrated inconsistent findings. The literature provides insight into the mechanism of action of BDNF at different levels of the central nervous system using animal studies. We identified multiple factors that influence the measurement of BDNF in serum and plasma and based on current evidence, we recommend assessing serum BDNF levels to quantify peripheral BDNF as they are more stable and sensitive to changes than plasma BDNF. CONCLUSION Although mechanistic studies clearly explain the role of BDNF, results from human studies are inconsistent. More studies are needed to evaluate the methodological challenges in using serum BDNF as a biomarker in NP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhushan Thakkar
- Department of Physical Therapy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Edmund O Acevedo
- Department of Kinesiology and Health Sciences, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia, USA
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Hudson KE, Grau JW. Ionic Plasticity: Common Mechanistic Underpinnings of Pathology in Spinal Cord Injury and the Brain. Cells 2022; 11:cells11182910. [PMID: 36139484 PMCID: PMC9496934 DOI: 10.3390/cells11182910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The neurotransmitter GABA is normally characterized as having an inhibitory effect on neural activity in the adult central nervous system (CNS), which quells over-excitation and limits neural plasticity. Spinal cord injury (SCI) can bring about a modification that weakens the inhibitory effect of GABA in the central gray caudal to injury. This change is linked to the downregulation of the potassium/chloride cotransporter (KCC2) and the consequent rise in intracellular Cl- in the postsynaptic neuron. As the intracellular concentration increases, the inward flow of Cl- through an ionotropic GABA-A receptor is reduced, which decreases its hyperpolarizing (inhibitory) effect, a modulatory effect known as ionic plasticity. The loss of GABA-dependent inhibition enables a state of over-excitation within the spinal cord that fosters aberrant motor activity (spasticity) and chronic pain. A downregulation of KCC2 also contributes to the development of a number of brain-dependent pathologies linked to states of neural over-excitation, including epilepsy, addiction, and developmental disorders, along with other diseases such as hypertension, asthma, and irritable bowel syndrome. Pharmacological treatments that target ionic plasticity have been shown to bring therapeutic benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey E. Hudson
- Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - James W. Grau
- Psychological & Brain Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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