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Swanson KA, Nguyen KL, Gupta S, Ricard J, Bethea JR. TNFR1/p38αMAPK signaling in Nex + supraspinal neurons regulates estrogen-dependent chronic neuropathic pain. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 119:261-271. [PMID: 38570102 PMCID: PMC11162907 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.03.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 03/26/2024] [Accepted: 03/30/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Upregulation of soluble tumor necrosis factor (sTNF) cytokine signaling through TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) and subsequent neuronal hyperexcitability are observed in both animal models and human chronic neuropathic pain (CNP). Previously, we have shown that estrogen modulates sTNF/TNFR1 signaling in CNP, which may contribute to female prevalence of CNP. The estrogen-dependent role of TNFR1-mediated supraspinal neuronal circuitry in CNP remains unknown. In this study, we interrogated the intersect between supraspinal TNFR1 mediated neuronal signaling and sex specificity by selectively removing TNFR1 in Nex + neurons in adult mice (NexCreERT2::TNFR1f/f). We determined that mechanical hypersensitivity induced by chronic constriction injury (CCI) decreases over time in males, but not in females. Subsequently, we investigated two downstream pathways, p38MAPK and NF-κB, important in TNFR1 signaling and injury response. We detected p38MAPK and NF-κB activation in male cortical tissue; however, p38MAPK phosphorylation was reduced in NexCreERT2::TNFR1f/f males. We observed a similar recovery from acute pain in male mice following CCI when p38αMAPK was knocked out of supraspinal Nex + neurons (NexCreERT2::p38αMAPKf/f), while chronic pain developed in female mice. To explore the intersection between estrogen and inflammation in CNP we used a combination therapy of an estrogen receptor β (ER β) inhibitor with a sTNF/TNFR1 or general p38MAPK inhibitor. We determined both combination therapies lends therapeutic relief to females following CCI comparable to the response evaluated in male mice. These data suggest that TNFR1/p38αMAPK signaling in Nex + neurons in CNP is male-specific and lack of therapeutic efficacy following sTNF inhibition in females is due to ER β interference. These studies highlight sex-specific differences in pathways important to pain chronification and elucidate potential therapeutic strategies that would be effective in both sexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn A Swanson
- Department of Biology, Drexel University, Papadakis Integrated Science Building, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Kayla L Nguyen
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ross Hall, 2300 I (Eye) St NW, Rm.530A, Washington, D.C 20052, USA.
| | - Shruti Gupta
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ross Hall, 2300 I (Eye) St NW, Rm.530A, Washington, D.C 20052, USA
| | - Jerome Ricard
- Department of Biology, Drexel University, Papadakis Integrated Science Building, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - John R Bethea
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ross Hall, 2300 I (Eye) St NW, Rm.530A, Washington, D.C 20052, USA.
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2
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Ding Y, Chen Q. Recent advances on signaling pathways and their inhibitors in spinal cord injury. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116938. [PMID: 38878684 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 05/27/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a serious and disabling central nervous system injury. Its complex pathological mechanism can lead to sensory and motor dysfunction. It has been reported that signaling pathway plays a key role in the pathological process and neuronal recovery mechanism of SCI. Such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, NF-κB, and Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathways. According to reports, various stimuli and cytokines activate these signaling pathways related to SCI pathology, thereby participating in the regulation of pathological processes such as inflammation response, cell apoptosis, oxidative stress, and glial scar formation after injury. Activation or inhibition of relevant pathways can delay inflammatory response, reduce neuronal apoptosis, prevent glial scar formation, improve the microenvironment after SCI, and promote neural function recovery. Based on the role of signaling pathways in SCI, they may be potential targets for the treatment of SCI. Therefore, understanding the signaling pathway and its inhibitors may be beneficial to the development of SCI therapeutic targets and new drugs. This paper mainly summarizes the pathophysiological process of SCI, the signaling pathways involved in SCI pathogenesis, and the potential role of specific inhibitors/activators in its treatment. In addition, this review also discusses the deficiencies and defects of signaling pathways in SCI research. It is hoped that this study can provide reference for future research on signaling pathways in the pathogenesis of SCI and provide theoretical basis for SCI biotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Ding
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital,16 Meiguan Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province 341000, PR China; Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University (Ganzhou Hospital-Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University),16 Meiguan Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province 341000, PR China
| | - Qin Chen
- Department of Spine Surgery, Ganzhou People's Hospital,16 Meiguan Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province 341000, PR China; Department of Spine Surgery, The Affiliated Ganzhou Hospital of Nanchang University (Ganzhou Hospital-Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University),16 Meiguan Avenue, Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province 341000, PR China.
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3
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Shi T, Liu Y, Ji B, Wang J, Ge Y, Fang Y, Xie Y, Xiao H, Wu L, Wang Y. Acupuncture Relieves Cervical Spondylosis Radiculopathy by Regulating Spinal Microglia Activation Through MAPK Signaling Pathway in Rats. J Pain Res 2023; 16:3945-3960. [PMID: 38026466 PMCID: PMC10674675 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s419927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose Local acupuncture has been found to have a good analgesic effect in rats with cervical spondylosis radiculopathy (CSR), but it lacks a regulatory effect on traditional Chinese medicine syndrome types of CSR. We proposed "Invigorating Qi and activating Blood" (IQAB) acupuncture, compared with Fenbid, and local electroacupuncture (LEA), to observe whether it has advantages in the protection of the CSR rat model and to elucidate its mechanism through the MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling pathway. Materials and Methods Male Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly divided into six groups: control, sham, model, Fenbid, LEA, and IQAB. The CSR model was induced by inserting nylon sutures to compress the C4-T1 nerve root. The Fenbid group was treated with ibuprofen sustained-release capsules (15 mg/kg·d, ig). The LEA group received electroacupuncture at both C5 and C7 EX-B2 once a day. The IQAB group received acupuncture at both ST36 and BL17 based on the LEA group's intervention. Mechanical allodynia and gait, morphological changes in the spinal cord, IL-6 and TNF-α levels, MAPKs phosphorylation ratio, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) levels in the spinal cord, and the expression of p-p38 in the spinal cord and its colocalization with neurons and glial cell activation markers were detected. Results Mechanical allodynia, gait disorder, edema, reduced Nissl-positive cell numbers, and increased IL-6 and TNF-α levels in the spinal cord were observed in CSR rats. IQAB significantly alleviated these changes, and the effects were generally comparable to those of Fenbid. Meanwhile, the phosphorylation ratios of p38 and extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK), co-expression of p-p38 with neuron/microglia, and MCP-1 levels in the spinal cord were markedly down-regulated by IQAB compared with those in CSR model rats. Conclusion IQAB reduced p38-activation-related microglia activation and MCP-1 levels, thus alleviating pathological changes, inflammation levels in the local spinal cord, and pain behavior of CSR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianyu Shi
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yitian Liu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Bo Ji
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jiajia Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunpeng Ge
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yang Fang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yana Xie
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongli Xiao
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Le Wu
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yifei Wang
- School of Acupuncture-Moxibustion and Tuina, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, People’s Republic of China
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4
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Swanson KA, Nguyen KL, Gupta S, Ricard J, Bethea JR. TNFR1/p38αMAPK signaling in Nex+ supraspinal neurons regulates sex-specific chronic neuropathic pain. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3273237. [PMID: 37674712 PMCID: PMC10479400 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3273237/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
Upregulation of soluble tumor necrosis factor (sTNF) cytokine signaling through TNF receptor 1 (TNFR1) and subsequent neuronal hyperexcitability are observed in both animal models and human chronic neuropathic pain (CNP) [1-4]. To test the hypothesis that supraspinal circuitry is critical to pain chronification, we studied the intersect between supraspinal TNFR1 mediated neuronal signaling and sex specificity by selectively removing TNFR1 in Nex + neurons in adult mice (NexCreERT2::TNFR1f/f). We determined that following chronic constriction injury (CCI), pain resolves in males; however, female acute pain transitions to chronic. Subsequently, we investigated two downstream pathways, p38MAPK and NF-κB, important in TNFR1 signaling and injury response. We detected p38αMAPK and NF-κB activation in male cortical tissue; however, p38αMAPK phosphorylation was reduced in NexCreERT2::TNFR1f/f males. We observed similar behavioral results following CCI in NexCreERT2::p38αMAPKf/f mice. Previously, we established estrogen's ability to modulate sTNF/TNFR1 signaling in CNP, which may contribute to female prevalence of CNP [5-9]. To explore the intersection between estrogen and inflammation in CNP we used a combination therapy of an estrogen receptor β (ER β) inhibitor with a sTNF/TNFR1 or general p38MAPK inhibitor. We determined both combination therapies lend "male-like" therapeutic relief to females following CCI. These data suggest that TNFR1/p38αMAPK signaling in Nex + neurons in CNP is male-specific and lack of therapeutic efficacy following sTNF inhibition in females is due to ER β interference. These studies highlight sex-specific differences in pathways important to pain chronification and elucidate potential therapeutic strategies that would be effective in both sexes.
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5
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Reddy D, Wickman JR, Ajit SK. Epigenetic regulation in opioid induced hyperalgesia. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2023; 14:100146. [PMID: 38099284 PMCID: PMC10719581 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2023.100146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
About 25 million American adults experience pain daily and one of the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat pain are opioids. Prolonged opioid usage and dose escalations can cause a paradoxical response where patients experience enhanced pain sensitivity. This opioid induced hyperalgesia (OIH) is a major hurdle when treating pain in the clinic because its underlying mechanisms are still not fully understood. OIH is also commonly overlooked and lacks guidelines to prevent its onset. Research on pain disorders and opioid usage have recognized potential epigenetic drivers of disease including DNA methylation, histone modifications, miRNA regulation, but their involvement in OIH has not been well studied. This article discusses epigenetic changes that may contribute to pathogenesis, with an emphasis on miRNA alterations in OIH. There is a crucial gap in knowledge including how multiple epigenetic modulators contribute to OIH. Elucidating the epigenetic changes underlying OIH and the crosstalk among these mechanisms could lead to the development of novel targets for the prevention and treatment of this painful phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deepa Reddy
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 North 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
| | - Jason R. Wickman
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 North 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
| | - Seena K. Ajit
- Department of Pharmacology & Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, 245 North 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA
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Ciapała K, Rojewska E, Pawlik K, Ciechanowska A, Mika J. Analgesic Effects of Fisetin, Peimine, Astaxanthin, Artemisinin, Bardoxolone Methyl and 740 Y-P and Their Influence on Opioid Analgesia in a Mouse Model of Neuropathic Pain. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24109000. [PMID: 37240346 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24109000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Treatment of neuropathic pain remains a challenge for modern medicine due to the insufficiently understood molecular mechanisms of its development and maintenance. One of the most important cascades that modulate the nociceptive response is the family of mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases and phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K), as well as nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). The aim of this study was to determine the effect of nonselective modulators of MAP kinases-fisetin (ERK1/2 and NFκB inhibitor, PI3K activator), peimine (MAPK inhibitor), astaxanthin (MAPK inhibitor, Nrf2 activator) and artemisinin (MAPK inhibitor, NFκB activator), as well as bardoxolone methyl (selective activator of Nrf2) and 740 Y-P (selective activator of PI3K)-in mice with peripheral neuropathy and to compare their antinociceptive potency and examine their effect on analgesia induced by opioids. The study was performed using albino Swiss male mice that were exposed to chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve (CCI model). Tactile and thermal hypersensitivity was measured using von Frey and cold plate tests, respectively. Single doses of substances were administered intrathecally on day 7 after CCI. Among the tested substances, fisetin, peimine, and astaxanthin effectively diminished tactile and thermal hypersensitivity in mice after CCI, while artemisinin did not exhibit analgesic potency in this model of neuropathic pain. Additionally, both of the activators tested, bardoxolone methyl and 740 Y-P, also showed analgesic effects after intrathecal administration in mice exposed to CCI. In the case of astaxanthin and bardoxolone methyl, an increase in analgesia after combined administration with morphine, buprenorphine, and/or oxycodone was observed. Fisetin and peimine induced a similar effect on tactile hypersensitivity, where analgesia was enhanced after administration of morphine or oxycodone. In the case of 740 Y-P, the effects of combined administration with each opioid were observed only in the case of thermal hypersensitivity. The results of our research clearly indicate that substances that inhibit all three MAPKs provide pain relief and improve opioid effectiveness, especially if they additionally block NF-κB, such as peimine, inhibit NF-κB and activate PI3K, such as fisetin, or activate Nrf2, such as astaxanthin. In light of our research, Nrf2 activation appears to be particularly beneficial. The abovementioned substances bring promising results, and further research on them will broaden our knowledge regarding the mechanisms of neuropathy and perhaps contribute to the development of more effective therapy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna Ciapała
- Department of Pain Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Str., 31-343 Krakow, Poland
| | - Ewelina Rojewska
- Department of Pain Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Str., 31-343 Krakow, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Pawlik
- Department of Pain Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Str., 31-343 Krakow, Poland
| | - Agata Ciechanowska
- Department of Pain Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Str., 31-343 Krakow, Poland
| | - Joanna Mika
- Department of Pain Pharmacology, Maj Institute of Pharmacology Polish Academy of Sciences, 12 Smetna Str., 31-343 Krakow, Poland
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7
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Liu Y, Yu H, Yu P, Peng P, Li C, Xiang Z, Ban D. Gelatin methacryloyl hydrogel scaffold loaded with activated Schwann cells attenuates apoptosis and promotes functional recovery following spinal cord injury. Exp Ther Med 2023; 25:144. [PMID: 36911380 PMCID: PMC9995797 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2023.11843] [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: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a refractory disease of the central nervous system with a high disability and incidence rate. In recent years, bioactive material combined with cell transplantation has been considered an effective method for the treatment of SCI. The present study encapsulated activated Schwann cells (ASCs) in a 3D gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA) hydrogel in order to investigate its therapeutic effects on SCI. ASCs were isolated from previously ligated rat sciatic nerves. Scanning electron microscopy and live/dead staining were used to evaluate the biocompatibility of hydrogels with the ASCs. The scaffold was transplanted into the spinal cord of rats in the hemisection model. Behavioral tests and hematoxylin and eosin staining were employed to assess the locomotion recovery and lesion areas before and after treatment. Cell apoptosis was evaluated using TUNEL staining and immunochemistry, and apoptosis-related protein expression was detected using western blot analysis. The ASCs exhibited a favorable survival and proliferative ability in the 3D GelMA hydrogel. The scaffold transplantation significantly reduced the cavities and improved functional recovery. Moreover, the GelMA/ASCs implants significantly inhibited cell apoptosis following SCI and this effect may be mediated via the p38 MAPK pathway. Overall, these findings indicated that ASCs combined with the 3D GelMA hydrogel may be a promising therapeutic strategy for SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Liu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Hao Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Peng Yu
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Peng Peng
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Chao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Zhenyang Xiang
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
| | - Dexiang Ban
- Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China.,International Science and Technology Cooperation Base of Spinal Cord Injury, Tianjin Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury, Department of Orthopedics, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Heping, Tianjin 300052, P.R. China
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8
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Lee SE, Greenough EK, Oancea P, Scheinfeld AR, Douglas AM, Gaudet AD. Sex Differences in Pain: Spinal Cord Injury in Female and Male Mice Elicits Behaviors Related to Neuropathic Pain. J Neurotrauma 2023; 40:833-844. [PMID: 36719772 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2022.0482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) in humans frequently causes intractable chronic pain. Females are susceptible to worse pain than males, and females may show higher pain prevalence after SCI. Despite this difference in the clinical prevalence of SCI pain, few pre-clinical studies have systematically studied sex differences in SCI-elicited pain-related behaviors in rodents. Here, we leverage data from a large cohort of mice to test whether contusion SCI consistently causes pain symptoms in mice, and to establish whether female (vs. male) mice display heightened hypersensitivity after SCI. Mechanical and heat sensory thresholds were assessed using the von Frey and Hargreaves tests, respectively. In an initial experiment, female mice receiving moderate 60 kDyn SCI or moderate-to-severe 75 kDyn SCI at T9 both exhibited mechanical and heat pain symptoms compared with sham controls. A 75 kDyn SCI caused excess motor deficits that confounded defining pain sensitivity at acute times; therefore, the moderate SCI force was used for subsequent experiments. Next, adult female and male C57BL6/J mice received sham surgery or T9 moderate contusion SCI. Comparing female to male mice after SCI, we reveal that mice of both sexes displayed mechanical and heat hypersensitivity compared with sham controls, from acute-to-chronic post-injury times. Females had amplified SCI-elicited hypersensitivity compared with males. Our data suggest that thoracic contusion SCI elicits consistent and persistent pain-associated symptoms, which are more intense in female than in male mice. These results have important implications for uncovering sex-specific mechanisms and therapeutic targets to ameliorate neuropathic pain after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney E Lee
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, and Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Emily K Greenough
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, and Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Paul Oancea
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, and Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Ashley R Scheinfeld
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, and Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Apsaline M Douglas
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, and Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
| | - Andrew D Gaudet
- Department of Psychology, College of Liberal Arts, and Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA.,Department of Neurology, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas, USA
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9
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Park J, Farmer M, Casson C, Kalashnikova I, Kolpek D. Therapeutic Potential of Combinative shRNA-Encoded Lentivirus-Mediated Gene Silencing to Accelerate Somatosensory Recovery After Spinal Cord Trauma. Neurotherapeutics 2023; 20:564-577. [PMID: 36401079 PMCID: PMC10121969 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-022-01331-7] [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] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a difficult problem that affects more than 80% of SCI patients. Growing evidence indicates that neuroinflammatory responses play a key role in neuropathic pain after SCI. Short hairpin RNA (shRNA) interference is an efficient tool for the knockdown of disease-related specific gene expression after SCI, yet insufficient data is available to establish guidelines. In this study, we have constructed the transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) shRNA encoded-lentiviral vector (LV-shTRPA1) and P38 MAPK shRNA encoded-lentiviral vector (LV-shP38) to investigate the silencing effects of shRNAs and their ability to reprogram the neuroinflammatory responses, thereby enhancing somatosensory recovery after SCI. Our in vitro data employing HEK293-FT and activated macrophages demonstrated that delivered LV-shRNAs showed high transduction efficacy with no cytotoxicity. Furthermore, a combination of LV-shP38 and LV-shTRPA1 was found to be most effective at suppressing target genes, cutting the expression of pro-inflammatory and pro-nociceptive factors in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia, thus contributing to the alleviation of neuronal hypersensitivities after SCI. Overall, our data demonstrated that the combination LV-shP38/shTRPA1 produced a synergistic effect for immunomodulation and reduced neuropathic pain with a favorable risk-to-benefit ratio. Collectively, our LV-mediated shRNA delivery will provide an efficient tool for gene silencing therapeutic approaches to treat various incurable disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonghyuck Park
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA.
- Spinal Cord and Brain Injury Research Center, University of Kentucky, 741 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA.
| | - Matthew Farmer
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Camara Casson
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Irina Kalashnikova
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
| | - Daniel Kolpek
- Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, 789 S. Limestone, Lexington, KY, 40506, USA
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10
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Zhao X, Li X, Guo H, Liu P, Ma M, Wang Y. Resolvin D1 attenuates mechanical allodynia after burn injury: Involvement of spinal glia, p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor/tropomyosin-related kinase B signaling. Mol Pain 2023; 19:17448069231159970. [PMID: 36765459 PMCID: PMC9986910 DOI: 10.1177/17448069231159970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Resolvin D1 (RvD1) suppresses inflammatory, postoperative, and neuropathic pain. The present study assessed the roles and mechanisms of RvD1 in mechanical allodynia after burn injury. A rat model of burn injury was established for analyses, and RvD1 was injected intraperitoneally. Pain behavior and the expression levels of spinal dorsal horn Iba-1 (microglia marker), GFAP (astrocyte marker), p-p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and tropomyosin-related kinase B (TrkB) were detected by behavioral and immunocytochemical assays. The results showed that RvD1 attenuated mechanical allodynia after burn injury, prevented microglial and astroglial activation, and downregulated p-p38 MAPK in microglia and BDNF/TrkB following burn injury. Similarly, inhibition of p38 MAPK and BDNF/TrkB signaling attenuated mechanical allodynia after burn injury. In addition, inhibition of p38 MAPK prevented spinal microglial activation and downregulated BDNF/TrkB following burn injury. Furthermore, inhibition of BDNF/TrkB signaling prevented spinal microglial activation and downregulated p-p38 MAPK within spinal microglia. Taken together, this study demonstrated that RvD1 might attenuate mechanical allodynia after burn injury by inhibiting spinal cord glial activation, microglial p38 MAPK, and BDNF/TrkB signaling in the spinal dorsal horn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaona Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, 191599The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xinxin Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, 191599The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huiling Guo
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, 191599The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Panmei Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, 191599The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Minyu Ma
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, 191599The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yanping Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain and Perioperative Medicine, 191599The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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11
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Bhagwani A, Chopra M, Kumar H. Spinal Cord Injury Provoked Neuropathic Pain and Spasticity, and Their GABAergic Connection. Neurospine 2022; 19:646-668. [PMID: 36203291 PMCID: PMC9537837 DOI: 10.14245/ns.2244368.184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is the devastating neurological damage to the spinal cord that becomes more complicated in the secondary phase. The secondary injury comes with inevitable long-lasting complications, such as chronic neuropathic pain (CNP) and spasticity which interfere with day to day activities of SCI patients. Mechanisms underlying CNP post-SCI are complex and remain refractory to current medical treatment. Due to the damage, extensive inhibitory, excitatory tone dysregulation causes maladaptive synaptic transmissions, further altering the nociceptive and nonnociceptive pathways. Excitotoxicity mediated GABAergic cell loss, downregulation of glutamate acid decarboxylase enzyme, upregulation of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) transporters, overactivation of glutamate receptors are some of the key evidence for hypoactive inhibitory tone contributing to CNP and spasticity post-SCI. Restoring the inhibitory GABAergic tone and preventing damage-induced excitotoxicity by employing various strategies provide neuroprotective and analgesic effects. The present article will discuss CNP and spasticity post-SCI, understanding their pathophysiological mechanisms, especially GABA-glutamate-related mechanisms, therapeutic interventions targeting them, and progress regarding how regulating the excitatory-inhibitory tone may lead to more targeted treatments for these distressing complications. Taking background knowledge of GABAergic analgesia and recent advancements, we aim to highlight how far we have reached in promoting inhibitory GABAergic tone for SCI-CNP and spasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ankita Bhagwani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Manjeet Chopra
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India
| | - Hemant Kumar
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India,Corresponding Author Hemant Kumar Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research (NIPER)-Ahmedabad, Opposite Air force Station, Palaj, Gandhinagar-382355, Gujarat, India ,
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12
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Nakajima N, Ohnishi Y, Yamamoto M, Setoyama D, Imai H, Takenaka T, Matsumoto M, Hosomi K, Saitoh Y, Furue H, Kishima H. Excess intracellular ATP causes neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:483. [PMID: 35972649 PMCID: PMC11072579 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04510-z] [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: 06/07/2022] [Revised: 07/16/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
Intractable neuropathic pain following spinal cord injury (NP-SCI) reduces a patient's quality of life. Excessive release of ATP into the extracellular space evokes neuroinflammation via purinergic receptor. Neuroinflammation plays an important role in the initiation and maintenance of NP. However, little is known about whether or not extracellular ATP cause NP-SCI. We found in the present study that excess of intracellular ATP at the lesion site evokes at-level NP-SCI. No significant differences in the body weight, locomotor function, or motor behaviors were found in groups that were negative and positive for at-level allodynia. The intracellular ATP level at the lesion site was significantly higher in the allodynia-positive mice than in the allodynia-negative mice. A metabolome analysis revealed that there were no significant differences in the ATP production or degradation between allodynia-negative and allodynia-positive mice. Dorsal horn neurons in allodynia mice were found to be inactivated in the resting state, suggesting that decreased ATP consumption due to neural inactivity leads to a build-up of intracellular ATP. In contrast to the findings in the resting state, mechanical stimulation increased the neural activity of dorsal horn and extracellular ATP release at lesion site. The forced production of intracellular ATP at the lesion site in non-allodynia mice induced allodynia. The inhibition of P2X4 receptors in allodynia mice reduced allodynia. These results suggest that an excess buildup of intracellular ATP in the resting state causes at-level NP-SCI as a result of the extracellular release of ATP with mechanical stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuhiko Nakajima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Ohnishi
- Department of Research Promotion and Management, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibe-Shimmachi, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan.
- Department of Neurosurgery, Osaka Gyoumeikan Hospital, Osaka, Japan.
| | - Masamichi Yamamoto
- Department of Research Promotion and Management, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibe-Shimmachi, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan.
| | - Daiki Setoyama
- Department of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hirohiko Imai
- Department of Systems Science, Graduate School of Informatics, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tomofumi Takenaka
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Mari Matsumoto
- Department of Research Promotion and Management, National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center, 6-1 Kishibe-Shimmachi, Suita, Osaka, 564-8565, Japan
| | - Koichi Hosomi
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
- Department of Neuromodulation and Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Yoichi Saitoh
- Department of Neuromodulation and Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
| | - Hidemasa Furue
- Department of Neurophysiology, Hyogo College of Medicine, Hyogo, Japan
| | - Haruhiko Kishima
- Department of Neurosurgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka University, Osaka, Japan
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13
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Li Y, Fang SC, Zhou L, Mo XM, Guo HD, Deng YB, Yu HH, Gong WY. Complement Receptor 3 Pathway and NMDA Receptor 2B Subunit Involve Neuropathic Pain Associated with Spinal Cord Injury. J Pain Res 2022; 15:1813-1823. [PMID: 35784110 PMCID: PMC9242000 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s366782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Neuropathic pain (NP) after spinal cord injury (SCI-evoked NP) is clinically challenging; the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood, leading to a lack of promising treatment options. NP occurs in only a subset of patients with SCI. The injured spinal cord exhibits a series of histopathological changes, and the complement system has been shown to play an important role in these processes. In addition, NMDA receptor subunit 2B (NR2B) is involved in the development and maintenance of NP. This preliminary study was performed to investigate the correlations of the complement receptor 3/complement component 3 (CR3/C3) pathway and NR2B with SCI-evoked NP. Methods A trauma-induced SCI animal model was established and SCI-evoked NP was evaluated by behavioural analysis. Transcriptome analysis was performed to identify genes in the CR3/C3 pathway related to synaptic modification, while the expression and distribution of NR2B in the injured spinal cord, and the relation to NP, were examined by immunohistochemical analysis. Results Nine of seventeen SCI rats (52.9%) developed NP. C3 mRNA expression was significantly decreased in SCI-evoked NP rats and significantly increased in the non-NP SCI rats. C1q mRNA and CR3 mRNA expression were significantly increased in all SCI rats, but higher levels of expression were observed in the non-NP SCI rats. NR2B mRNA expression was significantly increased in the SCI-evoked NP rats and significantly decreased in the non-NP SCI rats. In addition, significantly elevated expression of NR2B-positive cells was seen in lamina II of the superficial dorsal horn in SCI-evoked NP rats in comparison with non-NP SCI rats. Conclusion NP occurred in only a subset of SCI rats, and the CR3/C3 pathway and NR2B were involved in SCI-evoked NP. Further studies are required to determine the mechanisms underlying the SCI-evoked NP associated with the CR3/C3 pathway and NR2B.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Li
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng-Chun Fang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan Children’s Hospital (Wuhan Maternal and Child Healthcare Hospital), Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, 430015, People’s Republic of China
| | - Lan Zhou
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541100, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xue-Mei Mo
- Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao-Dong Guo
- Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan-Bo Deng
- Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hong-Hao Yu
- College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541100, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Hong-Hao Yu, College of Biotechnology, Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541100, People’s Republic of China, Email
| | - Wei-Yi Gong
- Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, Guangxi, 541000, People’s Republic of China
- Wei-Yi Gong, Department of Pain Management, Affiliated Hospital of Guilin Medical University, Guilin, 541000, Guangxi, People’s Republic of China, Email
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14
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Cordaro M, Siracusa R, D’Amico R, Genovese T, Franco G, Marino Y, Di Paola D, Cuzzocrea S, Impellizzeri D, Di Paola R, Fusco R. Role of Etanercept and Infliximab on Nociceptive Changes Induced by the Experimental Model of Fibromyalgia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116139. [PMID: 35682817 PMCID: PMC9181785 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Fibromyalgia is a clinical condition that affects 1% to 5% of the population. No proper therapy has been currently found. It has been described that inflammation plays a central role in the nerve sensitizations that characterize the pathology. Methods: This paper aimed to evaluate the efficacy of etanercept and infliximab in the management of pain sensitization. Fibromyalgia was induced by three injections once a day of reserpine at the dose of 1 mg/kg. Etanercept (3 mg/kg) and infliximab (10 mg/kg) were administered the day after the last reserpine injection and then 5 days after that. Behavioral analyses were conducted once a week, and molecular investigations were performed at the end of the experiment. Results: Our data confirmed the major effect of infliximab administration as compared to etanercept: infliximab administration strongly reduced pain sensitization in thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. From the molecular point of view, infliximab reduced the activation of microglia and astrocytes and the expression of the purinergic P2X7 receptor ubiquitously expressed on glia and neurons. Downstream of the P2X7 receptor, infliximab also reduced p38-MAPK overexpression induced by the reserpine administration. Conclusion: Etanercept and infliximab treatment caused a significant reduction in pain. In particular, rats that received infliximab showed less pain sensitization. Moreover, infliximab reduced the activation of microglia and astrocytes, reducing the expression of the purinergic receptor P2X7 and p38-MAPK pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marika Cordaro
- Department of Biomedical, Dental and Morphological and Functional Imaging University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | - Rosalba Siracusa
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
| | - Ramona D’Amico
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
| | - Tiziana Genovese
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
| | - Gianluca Franco
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
| | - Ylenia Marino
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
| | - Davide Di Paola
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
| | - Salvatore Cuzzocrea
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (D.I.)
| | - Daniela Impellizzeri
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Viale Ferdinando Stagno D’Alcontres 31, 98166 Messina, Italy; (R.S.); (R.D.); (T.G.); (G.F.); (Y.M.); (D.D.P.)
- Correspondence: (S.C.); (D.I.)
| | - Rosanna Di Paola
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Messina, 98168 Messina, Italy;
| | - Roberta Fusco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Via Consolare Valeria, 98125 Messina, Italy;
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15
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Apoptosis and (in) Pain—Potential Clinical Implications. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061255. [PMID: 35740277 PMCID: PMC9219669 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 05/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The deregulation of apoptosis is involved in the development of several pathologies, and recent evidence suggests that apoptosis may be involved in chronic pain, namely in neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is a chronic pain state caused by primary damage or dysfunction of the nervous system; however, the details of the molecular mechanisms have not yet been fully elucidated. Recently, it was found that nerve endings contain transient receptor potential (TRP) channels that sense and detect signals released by injured tissues and respond to these damage signals. TRP channels are similar to the voltage-gated potassium channels or nucleotide-gated channels that participate in calcium and magnesium homeostasis. TRP channels allowing calcium to penetrate into nerve terminals can activate apoptosis, leading to nerve terminal destruction. Further, some TRPs are activated by acid and reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS are mainly produced in the mitochondrial respiratory chain, and an increase in ROS production and/or a decrease in the antioxidant network may induce oxidative stress (OS). Depending on the OS levels, they can promote cellular proliferation and/or cell degeneration or death. Previous studies have indicated that proinflammatory cytokines, such as tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), play an important role in the peripheral mediation of neuropathic pain. This article aims to perform a review of the involvement of apoptosis in pain, particularly the role of OS and neuroinflammation, and the clinical relevance of this knowledge. The potential discovery of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets can result in the development of more effective and targeted drugs to treat chronic pain, namely neuropathic pain. Highlights: Oxidative stress and neuroinflammation can activate cell signaling pathways that can lead to nerve terminal destruction by apoptosis. These could constitute potential new pain biomarkers and targets for therapy in neuropathic pain.
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16
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Lee HJ, Lim HM, Feng JH, Lee JM, Lee JT, Suh HW. Antinociceptive effect of N-(9,13b-dihydro-1H-dibenzo[c,f]imidazo[1,5-a]azepin-3-yl)-2-hydroxybenzamide on different pain models in mice. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902022e20030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hee-Jung Lee
- Hallym University, Korea; Hallym University, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | - Hong-Won Suh
- Hallym University, Korea; Hallym University, Korea
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17
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Corticospinal Motor Circuit Plasticity After Spinal Cord Injury: Harnessing Neuroplasticity to Improve Functional Outcomes. Mol Neurobiol 2021; 58:5494-5516. [PMID: 34341881 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-021-02484-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating condition that affects approximately 294,000 people in the USA and several millions worldwide. The corticospinal motor circuitry plays a major role in controlling skilled movements and in planning and coordinating movements in mammals and can be damaged by SCI. While axonal regeneration of injured fibers over long distances is scarce in the adult CNS, substantial spontaneous neural reorganization and plasticity in the spared corticospinal motor circuitry has been shown in experimental SCI models, associated with functional recovery. Beneficially harnessing this neuroplasticity of the corticospinal motor circuitry represents a highly promising therapeutic approach for improving locomotor outcomes after SCI. Several different strategies have been used to date for this purpose including neuromodulation (spinal cord/brain stimulation strategies and brain-machine interfaces), rehabilitative training (targeting activity-dependent plasticity), stem cells and biological scaffolds, neuroregenerative/neuroprotective pharmacotherapies, and light-based therapies like photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photobiomodulation (PMBT). This review provides an overview of the spontaneous reorganization and neuroplasticity in the corticospinal motor circuitry after SCI and summarizes the various therapeutic approaches used to beneficially harness this neuroplasticity for functional recovery after SCI in preclinical animal model and clinical human patients' studies.
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18
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Warfield AE, Prather JF, Todd WD. Systems and Circuits Linking Chronic Pain and Circadian Rhythms. Front Neurosci 2021; 15:705173. [PMID: 34276301 PMCID: PMC8284721 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2021.705173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Research over the last 20 years regarding the link between circadian rhythms and chronic pain pathology has suggested interconnected mechanisms that are not fully understood. Strong evidence for a bidirectional relationship between circadian function and pain has been revealed through inflammatory and immune studies as well as neuropathic ones. However, one limitation of many of these studies is a focus on only a few molecules or cell types, often within only one region of the brain or spinal cord, rather than systems-level interactions. To address this, our review will examine the circadian system as a whole, from the intracellular genetic machinery that controls its timing mechanism to its input and output circuits, and how chronic pain, whether inflammatory or neuropathic, may mediate or be driven by changes in these processes. We will investigate how rhythms of circadian clock gene expression and behavior, immune cells, cytokines, chemokines, intracellular signaling, and glial cells affect and are affected by chronic pain in animal models and human pathologies. We will also discuss key areas in both circadian rhythms and chronic pain that are sexually dimorphic. Understanding the overlapping mechanisms and complex interplay between pain and circadian mediators, the various nuclei they affect, and how they differ between sexes, will be crucial to move forward in developing treatments for chronic pain and for determining how and when they will achieve their maximum efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - William D. Todd
- Program in Neuroscience, Department of Zoology and Physiology, University of Wyoming, Laramie, WY, United States
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19
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Yeo JH, Kim SJ, Roh DH. Rapamycin reduces orofacial nociceptive responses and microglial p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase phosphorylation in trigeminal nucleus caudalis in mouse orofacial formalin model. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2021; 25:365-374. [PMID: 34187953 PMCID: PMC8255123 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2021.25.4.365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) plays a role in various cellular phenomena, including autophagy, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Although recent studies have reported its involvement in nociceptive responses in several pain models, whether mTOR is involved in orofacial pain processing is currently unexplored. This study determined whether rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor, reduces nociceptive responses and the number of Fos-immunoreactive (Fos-ir) cells in the trigeminal nucleus caudalis (TNC) in a mouse orofacial formalin model. We also examined whether the glial cell expression and phosphorylated p38 (p-p38) mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) in the TNC are affected by rapamycin. Mice were intraperitoneally given rapamycin (0.1, 0.3, or 1.0 mg/kg); then, 30 min after, 5% formalin (10 µl) was subcutaneously injected into the right upper lip. The rubbing responses with the ipsilateral forepaw or hindpaw were counted for 45 min. High-dose rapamycin (1.0 mg/kg) produced significant antinociceptive effects in both the first and second phases of formalin test. The number of Fos-ir cells in the ipsilateral TNC was also reduced by high-dose rapamycin compared with vehicle-treated animals. Furthermore, the number of p-p38-ir cells the in ipsilateral TNC was significantly decreased in animals treated with high-dose rapamycin; p-p38 expression was co-localized in microglia, but not neurons and astrocytes. Therefore, the mTOR inhibitor, rapamycin, reduces orofacial nociception and Fos expression in the TNC, and its antinociceptive action on orofacial pain may be associated with the inhibition of p-p38 MAPK in the microglia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Hee Yeo
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Sol-Ji Kim
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Roh
- Department of Oral Physiology, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Korea
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20
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Fakhri S, Abbaszadeh F, Jorjani M. On the therapeutic targets and pharmacological treatments for pain relief following spinal cord injury: A mechanistic review. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111563. [PMID: 33873146 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 03/29/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is globally considered as one of the most debilitating disorders, which interferes with daily activities and life of the affected patients. Despite many developments in related recognizing and treating procedures, post-SCI neuropathic pain (NP) is still a clinical challenge for clinicians with no distinct treatments. Accordingly, a comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and national database (SID and Irandoc). The relevant articles regarding signaling pathways, therapeutic targets and pharmacotherapy of post-SCI pain were also reviewed. Data were collected with no time limitation until November 2020. The present study provides the findings on molecular mechanisms and therapeutic targets, as well as developing the critical signaling pathways to introduce novel neuroprotective treatments of post-SCI pain. From the pathophysiological mechanistic point of view, post-SCI inflammation activates the innate immune system, in which the immune cells elicit secondary injuries. So, targeting the critical signaling pathways for pain management in the SCI population has significant importance in providing new treatments. Indeed, several receptors, ion channels, excitatory neurotransmitters, enzymes, and key signaling pathways could be used as therapeutic targets, with a pivotal role of n-methyl-D-aspartate, gamma-aminobutyric acid, and inflammatory mediators. The current review focuses on conventional therapies, as well as crucial signaling pathways and promising therapeutic targets for post-SCI pain to provide new insights into the clinical treatment of post-SCI pain. The need to develop innovative delivery systems to treat SCI is also considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajad Fakhri
- Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, Health Institute, Kermanshah University of Medical Sciences, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Abbaszadeh
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Neuroscience, Faculty of Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Jorjani
- Neurobiology Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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21
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Lee BH, Kang J, Kim HY, Gwak YS. The Roles of Superoxide on At-Level Spinal Cord Injury Pain in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22052672. [PMID: 33800907 PMCID: PMC7961837 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22052672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: In the present study, we examined superoxide-mediated excitatory nociceptive transmission on at-level neuropathic pain following spinal thoracic 10 contusion injury (SCI) in male Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: Mechanical sensitivity at body trunk, neuronal firing activity, and expression of superoxide marker/ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs)/CamKII were measured in the T7/8 dorsal horn, respectively. Results: Topical treatment of superoxide donor t-BOOH (0.4 mg/kg) increased neuronal firing rates and pCamKII expression in the naïve group, whereas superoxide scavenger Tempol (1 mg/kg) and non-specific ROS scavenger PBN (3 mg/kg) decreased firing rates in the SCI group (* p < 0.05). SCI showed increases of iGluRs-mediated neuronal firing rates and pCamKII expression (* p < 0.05); however, t-BOOH treatment did not show significant changes in the naïve group. The mechanical sensitivity at the body trunk in the SCI group (6.2 ± 0.5) was attenuated by CamKII inhibitor KN-93 (50 μg, 3.9 ± 0.4) or Tempol (1 mg, 4 ± 0.4) treatment (* p < 0.05). In addition, the level of superoxide marker Dhet showed significant increase in SCI rats compared to the sham group (11.7 ± 1.7 vs. 6.6 ± 1.5, * p < 0.05). Conclusions: Superoxide and the pCamKII pathway contribute to chronic at-level neuropathic pain without involvement of iGluRs following SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bong Hyo Lee
- Department of Acupuncture, Moxibustion and Acupoint, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Korea;
- Research Center for Herbal Convergence on Liver Disease, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Korea;
| | - Jonghoon Kang
- Department of Biology, Valdosta State University, Valdosta, GA 31698, USA;
| | - Hee Young Kim
- Research Center for Herbal Convergence on Liver Disease, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Korea;
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Korea
| | - Young S. Gwak
- Department of Physiology, College of Korean Medicine, Daegu Haany University, Daegu 42158, Korea
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-949-824-7222
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22
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Blumenthal GH, Nandakumar B, Schnider AK, Detloff MR, Ricard J, Bethea JR, Moxon KA. Modelling at-level allodynia after mid-thoracic contusion in the rat. Eur J Pain 2021; 25:801-816. [PMID: 33296535 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rat mid-thoracic contusion model has been used to study at-level tactile allodynia, a common type of pain that develops after spinal cord injury (SCI). An important advantage of this model is that not all animals develop hypersensitivity. Therefore, it can be used to examine mechanisms that are strictly related to the development of pain-like behaviour separately from mechanisms related to the injury itself. However, how to separate animals that develop hypersensitivity from those that do not is unclear. METHODS The aims of the current study were to identify where hypersensitivity and spasticity develop and use this information to identify metrics to separate animals that develop hypersensitivity from those that do not to study differences in their behaviour. To accomplish these aims, a grid was used to localize hypersensitivity on the dorsal trunk relative to thoracic dermatomes and supraspinal responses to tactile stimulation were tallied. These supraspinal responses were used to develop a hypersensitivity score to separate animals that develop hypersensitivity, or pain-like response to nonpainful stimuli. RESULTS Similar to humans, the development of hypersensitivity could occur with the development of spasticity or hyperreflexia. Moreover, the time course and prevalence of hypersensitivity phenotypes (at-, above-, or below level) produced by this model were similar to that observed in humans with SCI. CONCLUSION However, the amount of spared spinal matter in the cord did not explain the development of hypersensitivity, as previously reported. This approach can be used to study the mechanisms underlying the development of hypersensitivity separately from mechanisms related to injury alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gary H Blumenthal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Bharadwaj Nandakumar
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Ashley K Schnider
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Megan R Detloff
- Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy, Spinal Cord Research Center, College of Medicine, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jerome Ricard
- Department of Biology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - John R Bethea
- Department of Biology, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Karen A Moxon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Science, and Health Systems, Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California-Davis, Davis, CA, USA.,Center for Neuroscience, Davis, CA, USA
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23
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Song Y, Yuan H, Chen T, Lu M, Lei S, Han X. An Shen Ding Zhi Ling Alleviates Symptoms of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder via Anti-Inflammatory Effects in Spontaneous Hypertensive Rats. Front Pharmacol 2021; 11:617581. [PMID: 33536923 PMCID: PMC7847841 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2020.617581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a childhood-onset chronic neurobehavioral disorder, with multiple genetic and environmental risk factors. Chronic inflammation may be critical for the progression of ADHD. An Shen Ding Zhi Ling (ASDZL) decoction, a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, is clinically used in ADHD treatment. In this study, we investigated the effects and underlying anti-inflammatory mechanisms of ASDZL in young spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHRs), a widely used model of ADHD. SHRs were divided into the SHR model group (vehicle), atomoxetine group (4.56 mg/kg/day) and ASDZL group (21.25 g/kg/day), and orally administered for four weeks. Wistar Kyoto rats were used as controls (vehicle). We found that ASDZL significantly controlled hyperactivity and impulsivity, and improved spatial memory of SHRs in the open field test and Morris water maze test. ASDZL reduced the pro-inflammatory factors interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-4, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)-1 and increased anti-inflammatory factor IL-10 in SHRs, and decreased the activation of microglia, astrocytes and mast cells in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) and hippocampus. Furthermore, the results indicated that ASDZL inhibited the neuroinflammatory response by protecting the integrity of the blood-brain barrier and suppressing the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathways of SHRs. In conclusion, these findings revealed that ASDZL attenuated ADHD symptoms in SHRs by reducing neuroinflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuchen Song
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Pediatric Respiratory Disease, Nanjing, China
| | - Haixia Yuan
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tianyi Chen
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Manqi Lu
- College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gansu University of Chinese Medicine, Gansu, China
| | - Shuang Lei
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Xinmin Han
- Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China.,First Clinical Medical College, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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24
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Asih PR, Prikas E, Stefanoska K, Tan ARP, Ahel HI, Ittner A. Functions of p38 MAP Kinases in the Central Nervous System. Front Mol Neurosci 2020; 13:570586. [PMID: 33013322 PMCID: PMC7509416 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2020.570586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are a central component in signaling networks in a multitude of mammalian cell types. This review covers recent advances on specific functions of p38 MAP kinases in cells of the central nervous system. Unique and specific functions of the four mammalian p38 kinases are found in all major cell types in the brain. Mechanisms of p38 activation and downstream phosphorylation substrates in these different contexts are outlined and how they contribute to functions of p38 in physiological and under disease conditions. Results in different model organisms demonstrated that p38 kinases are involved in cognitive functions, including functions related to anxiety, addiction behavior, neurotoxicity, neurodegeneration, and decision making. Finally, the role of p38 kinases in psychiatric and neurological conditions and the current progress on therapeutic inhibitors targeting p38 kinases are covered and implicate p38 kinases in a multitude of CNS-related physiological and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prita R Asih
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Emmanuel Prikas
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kristie Stefanoska
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Amanda R P Tan
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Holly I Ahel
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Arne Ittner
- Dementia Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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25
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Fatty acid suppression of glial activation prevents central neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury. Pain 2020; 160:2724-2742. [PMID: 31365471 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
About half of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI) develop debilitating central neuropathic pain (CNP), with no effective treatments. Thus, effective, safe, and novel therapies are needed urgently. Previously, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was reported to confer neuroprotection in preclinical SCI models. However, its therapeutic potential on SCI-CNP remains to be elucidated. Here, we demonstrated for the first time that intravenous DHA administrations with 3-day intervals (250 nmol/kg; starting 30 minutes after injury and maintained for 6 weeks) effectively prevented SCI-CNP development in a clinically relevant rat contusion model. SCI-CNP was assessed by a novel sensory profiling approach combining evoked pain measures and pain-related ethologically relevant rodent behaviours (burrowing, thigmotaxis, and place/escape avoidance) to mimic those for measuring human (sensory, affective, cognitive, and spontaneous) pain. Strikingly, already established SCI-CNP could be abolished partially by similar DHA administrations, starting from the beginning of week 4 after injury and maintained for 4 weeks. At spinal (epicenter and L5 dorsal horns) and supraspinal (anterior cingulate cortex) levels, both treatment regimens potently suppressed microglial and astrocyte activation, which underpins SCI-CNP pathogenesis. Spinal microgliosis, a known hallmark associated with neuropathic pain behaviours, was reduced by DHA treatments. Finally, we revealed novel potential roles of peroxisome proliferator-activated and retinoid X receptors and docosahexaenoyl ethanolamide (DHA's metabolite) in mediating DHA's effects on microglial activation. Our findings, coupled with the excellent long-term clinical safety of DHA even in surgical and critically ill patients, suggest that systemic DHA treatment is a translatable, effective, safe, and novel approach for preventing and managing SCI-CNP.
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26
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Phạm TL, Kim DW. Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanomaterial-based treatment options for pain management: a review. Nanomedicine (Lond) 2020; 15:1897-1913. [PMID: 32757701 DOI: 10.2217/nnm-2020-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is one of the most intense types of chronic pain; it constitutes a pervasive complaint throughout the public health system. With few effective treatments, it remains a significant challenge. Commercially available drugs for neuropathic pain are still limited and have disappointing efficacy. Therefore, chronic neuropathic pain imposes a tremendous burden on patients' quality of life. Recently, the introduction and application of nanotechnology in multiple fields has accelerated the development of new drugs. This review highlights the application of poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) nanomaterial-based vehicles for drug delivery and how they improve the therapeutic outcomes for neuropathic pain treatment. Finally, future developments for pain research and effective management are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thuỳ Linh Phạm
- Department of Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Research Institute, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Histology & Embryology, Hai Phong University of Medicine & Pharmacy Hospital, Hai Phong, 042-12, Vietnam
| | - Dong Woon Kim
- Department of Medical Science, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
- Department of Anatomy, Brain Research Institute, Chungnam National University College of Medicine, Daejeon, 35015, Republic of Korea
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27
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Significance of Omega-3 Fatty Acids in the Prophylaxis and Treatment after Spinal Cord Injury in Rodent Models. Mediators Inflamm 2020; 2020:3164260. [PMID: 32801994 PMCID: PMC7411484 DOI: 10.1155/2020/3164260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω-3 acids, PUFAs) are essential components of cell membranes in all mammals. A multifactorial beneficial influence of ω-3 fatty acids on the health of humans and other mammals has been observed for many years. Therefore, ω-3 fatty acids and their function in the prophylaxis and treatment of various pathologies have been subjected to numerous studies. Regarding the documented therapeutic influence of ω-3 fatty acids on the nervous and immune systems, the aim of this paper is to present the current state of knowledge and the critical assessment of the role of ω-3 fatty acids in the prophylaxis and treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) in rodent models. The prophylactic properties (pre-SCI) include the stabilization of neuron cell membranes, the reduction of the expression of inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and KC/GRO/CINC), the improvement of local blood flow, reduced eicosanoid production, activation of protective intracellular transcription pathways (dependent on RXR, PPAR-α, Akt, and CREB), and increased concentration of lipids, glycogen, and oligosaccharides by neurons. On the other hand, the therapeutic properties (post-SCI) include the increased production of endogenous antioxidants such as carnosine and homocarnosine, the maintenance of elevated GSH concentrations at the site of injury, reduced concentrations of oxidative stress marker (MDA), autophagy improvement (via increasing the expression of LC3-II), and p38 MAPK expression reduction in the superficial dorsal horns (limiting the sensation of neuropathic pain). Paradoxically, despite the well-documented protective activity of ω-3 acids in rodents with SCI, the research does not offer an answer to the principal question of the optimal dose and treatment duration. Therefore, it is worth emphasizing the role of multicenter rodent studies with the implementation of standards which initially may even be based on arbitrary criteria. Additionally, basing on available research data, the authors of this paper make a careful attempt at referring some of the conclusions to the human population.
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28
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Chambel SS, Tavares I, Cruz CD. Chronic Pain After Spinal Cord Injury: Is There a Role for Neuron-Immune Dysregulation? Front Physiol 2020; 11:748. [PMID: 32733271 PMCID: PMC7359877 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2020.00748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating event with a tremendous impact in the life of the affected individual and family. Traumatic injuries related to motor vehicle accidents, falls, sports, and violence are the most common causes. The majority of spinal lesions is incomplete and occurs at cervical levels of the cord, causing a disruption of several ascending and descending neuronal pathways. Additionally, many patients develop chronic pain and describe it as burning, stabbing, shooting, or shocking and often arising with no stimulus. Less frequently, people with SCI also experience pain out of context with the stimulus (e.g., light touch). While abolishment of the endogenous descending inhibitory circuits is a recognized cause for chronic pain, an increasing number of studies suggest that uncontrolled release of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators by neurons, glial, and immune cells is also important in the emergence and maintenance of SCI-induced chronic pain. This constitutes the topic of the present mini-review, which will focus on the importance of neuro-immune dysregulation for pain after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia S Chambel
- Department of Biomedicine, Experimental Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Translational NeuroUrology Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde - i3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Isaura Tavares
- Department of Biomedicine, Experimental Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Pain Research Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde - i3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Célia D Cruz
- Department of Biomedicine, Experimental Biology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.,Translational NeuroUrology Group, Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde - i3S, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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29
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Nakajima H, Honjoh K, Watanabe S, Kubota A, Matsumine A. Distribution and polarization of microglia and macrophages at injured sites and the lumbar enlargement after spinal cord injury. Neurosci Lett 2020; 737:135152. [PMID: 32531528 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2020.135152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes loss of locomotor function and chronic neuropathic pain (NeP). Hematogenous macrophages and activated microglia are key monocytic lineage cell types in the response to SCI, and each has M1- and M2-phenotypes. To understand the roles of these cells in neuronal regeneration and chronic NeP after SCI, differences in distribution and phenotypes of activated microglia and infiltrated macrophages after SCI were examined at the injured site and the lumbar enlargement, as a remote region. Chimeric mice were used for differentiating activated microglia from hematogenous macrophages. The prevalences of activated microglia and infiltrating macrophages increased at day 14 after SCI, at the time of most severe pain hypersensitivity, with mainly M1-type hematogenous macrophages at the injured site and M2-type activated microglia at the lumbar enlargement. Peak expression of TNF-α, an M1-induced cytokine, occurred on day 4 post-SCI at the injured site, but not until day 14 at the lumbar enlargement. Expression of IL-4, a M2-induced cytokine, peaked at 4 days after SCI at both sites. These results suggest different roles of activated microglia and hematogenous macrophages, including both phenotypes of each cell, in neuronal regeneration and chronic NeP after SCI at the injured site and lumbar enlargement. The prevalence of the M1 over the M2 phenotype at the injured site until the subacute phase after SCI may be partially responsible for the lack of functional recovery and chronic NeP after SCI. Activation of M2-type microglia at the lumbar enlargement in response to inflammatory cytokines from the injured site might be important in chronic below-level pain. These findings are useful for establishment of a therapeutic target for prevention of motor deterioration and NeP in the time-dependent response to SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hideaki Nakajima
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan.
| | - Kazuya Honjoh
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan
| | - Shuji Watanabe
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan
| | - Arisa Kubota
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan
| | - Akihiko Matsumine
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui, 910-1193, Japan
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30
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Mai L, Zhu X, Huang F, He H, Fan W. p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase and pain. Life Sci 2020; 256:117885. [PMID: 32485175 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/23/2020] [Accepted: 05/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory and neuropathic pain is initiated by tissue inflammation and nerve injury, respectively. Both are characterized by increased activity in the peripheral and central nervous system, where multiple inflammatory cytokines and other active molecules activate different signaling pathways that involve in the development and/or maintenance of pain. P38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) is one member of the MAPK family, which is activated in neurons and glia and contributes importantly to inflammatory and neuropathic pain. The aim of this review is to summarize the latest advances made about the implication of p38 MAPK signaling cascade in pain. It can deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of pain and may help to offer new targets for pain treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijia Mai
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Xiao Zhu
- The Marine Biomedical Research Institute, Guangdong Medical University, Zhanjiang 524023, China
| | - Fang Huang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Hongwen He
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China
| | - Wenguo Fan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Guanghua School of Stomatology, Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou 510080, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou 510080, China.
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31
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Regional Hyperexcitability and Chronic Neuropathic Pain Following Spinal Cord Injury. Cell Mol Neurobiol 2020; 40:861-878. [PMID: 31955281 DOI: 10.1007/s10571-020-00785-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) causes maladaptive changes to nociceptive synaptic circuits within the injured spinal cord. Changes also occur at remote regions including the brain stem, limbic system, cortex, and dorsal root ganglia. These maladaptive nociceptive synaptic circuits frequently cause neuronal hyperexcitability in the entire nervous system and enhance nociceptive transmission, resulting in chronic central neuropathic pain following SCI. The underlying mechanism of chronic neuropathic pain depends on the neuroanatomical structures and electrochemical communication between pre- and postsynaptic neuronal membranes, and propagation of synaptic transmission in the ascending pain pathways. In the nervous system, neurons are the only cell type that transmits nociceptive signals from peripheral receptors to supraspinal systems due to their neuroanatomical and electrophysiological properties. However, the entire range of nociceptive signaling is not mediated by any single neuron. Current literature describes regional studies of electrophysiological or neurochemical mechanisms for enhanced nociceptive transmission post-SCI, but few studies report the electrophysiological, neurochemical, and neuroanatomical changes across the entire nervous system following a regional SCI. We, along with others, have continuously described the enhanced nociceptive transmission in the spinal dorsal horn, brain stem, thalamus, and cortex in SCI-induced chronic central neuropathic pain condition, respectively. Thus, this review summarizes the current understanding of SCI-induced neuronal hyperexcitability and maladaptive nociceptive transmission in the entire nervous system that contributes to chronic central neuropathic pain.
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32
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Manion J, Waller MA, Clark T, Massingham JN, Neely GG. Developing Modern Pain Therapies. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:1370. [PMID: 31920521 PMCID: PMC6933609 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.01370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain afflicts as much as 50% of the population at any given time but our methods to address pain remain limited, ineffective and addictive. In order to develop new therapies an understanding of the mechanisms of painful sensitization is essential. We discuss here recent progress in the understanding of mechanisms underlying pain, and how these mechanisms are being targeted to produce modern, specific therapies for pain. Finally, we make recommendations for the next generation of targeted, effective, and safe pain therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Manion
- The Dr. John and Anne Chong Lab for Functional Genomics, Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Matthew A. Waller
- The Dr. John and Anne Chong Lab for Functional Genomics, Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Teleri Clark
- The Dr. John and Anne Chong Lab for Functional Genomics, Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joshua N. Massingham
- The Dr. John and Anne Chong Lab for Functional Genomics, Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - G. Gregory Neely
- The Dr. John and Anne Chong Lab for Functional Genomics, Charles Perkins Centre and School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Genome Editing Initiative, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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33
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Li T, Xu R, Xia H, Hu X, Wang S, Li Y, Yan Y, Xia Y. ASK1 phosphorylation regulates astrocytic reactive gliosis in vitro and in vivo. Neurosci Lett 2019; 716:134675. [PMID: 31830507 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2019.134675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Apoptosis signal-regulating kinase 1 (ASK1) may play a pivotal role in reactive gliosis. To assess the role of ASK1 in trauma-induced reactive gliosis, we examined the phosphorylation of ASK1 and the expression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and vimentin after scratch injury in cultured astrocytes and spinal cord injury (SCI) in rats. Enhanced phosphorylation of ASK1 was detected during reactive gliosis both in vitro and in vivo, and P38 MAPK relayed the signal from phosphorylated ASK1 to the activation of astrocytes. Immunoprecipitation analyses suggested that 14-3-3 was dissociated from ASK1 during astrocyte activation. Finally, treatment with thioredoxin reduced ASK1 phosphorylation and reactive gliosis and promoted hindlimb locomotion recovery in SCI rats. These results indicated that ASK1 may play an important role in mechanical-injury-induced reactive gliosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianzun Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China; Department of Neurosurgery, Daping Hospital and Institute Research of Surgery, Army Medical University, Chongqing 400042, China
| | - Rui Xu
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Haijian Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Xiaojun Hu
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Shengxi Wang
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yi Yan
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China
| | - Yongzhi Xia
- Department of Neurosurgery, First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, China.
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Zheng H, Hu S, Cao J, Yao L, Zhang N. Long non-coding RNA TUG1 alleviates LPS-induced injury of PC-12 cells by down-regulating microRNA-127. Exp Mol Pathol 2019; 110:104287. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yexmp.2019.104287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 07/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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Hao J, Wang P, Pei D, Jia B, Hu Q. Rhein lysinate improves motor function in rats with spinal cord injury via inhibiting p38 MAPK pathway. Kaohsiung J Med Sci 2019; 35:765-771. [PMID: 31483087 DOI: 10.1002/kjm2.12123] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Hao
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital Shenzhen China
| | - Ping Wang
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital Shenzhen China
| | - Dai‐Ping Pei
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital Shenzhen China
| | - Bin Jia
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital Shenzhen China
| | - Qun‐Sheng Hu
- Department of Orthopedic SurgeryShenzhen Pingle Orthopedic Hospital Shenzhen China
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Akhmetzyanova E, Kletenkov K, Mukhamedshina Y, Rizvanov A. Different Approaches to Modulation of Microglia Phenotypes After Spinal Cord Injury. Front Syst Neurosci 2019; 13:37. [PMID: 31507384 PMCID: PMC6718713 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2019.00037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Microglial cells, which are highly plastic, immediately respond to any change in the microenvironment by becoming activated and shifting the phenotype toward neurotoxicity or neuroprotection. The polarization of microglia/macrophages after spinal cord injury (SCI) seems to be a dynamic process and can change depending on the microenvironment, stage, course, and severity of the posttraumatic process. Effective methods to modulate microglia toward a neuroprotective phenotype in order to stimulate neuroregeneration are actively sought for. In this context, available approaches that can selectively impact the polarization of microglia/macrophages regulate synthesis of trophic factors and cytokines/chemokines in them, and their phagocytic function and effects on the course and outcome of SCI are discussed in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elvira Akhmetzyanova
- OpenLab Gene and Cell Technologies, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Konstantin Kletenkov
- OpenLab Gene and Cell Technologies, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Yana Mukhamedshina
- OpenLab Gene and Cell Technologies, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia.,Department of Histology, Cytology and Embryology, Kazan State Medical University, Kazan, Russia
| | - Albert Rizvanov
- OpenLab Gene and Cell Technologies, Institute of Fundamental Medicine and Biology, Kazan Federal University, Kazan, Russia
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Abstract
Elevated N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) activity is linked to central sensitization and chronic pain. However, NMDAR antagonists display limited therapeutic potential because of their adverse side effects. Novel approaches targeting the NR2B-PSD95-nNOS complex to disrupt signaling pathways downstream of NMDARs show efficacy in preclinical pain models. Here, we evaluated the involvement of interactions between neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) and the nitric oxide synthase 1 adaptor protein (NOS1AP) in pronociceptive signaling and neuropathic pain. TAT-GESV, a peptide inhibitor of the nNOS-NOS1AP complex, disrupted the in vitro binding between nNOS and its downstream protein partner NOS1AP but not its upstream protein partner postsynaptic density 95 kDa (PSD95). Putative inactive peptides (TAT-cp4GESV and TAT-GESVΔ1) failed to do so. Only the active peptide protected primary cortical neurons from glutamate/glycine-induced excitotoxicity. TAT-GESV, administered intrathecally (i.t.), suppressed mechanical and cold allodynia induced by either the chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel or a traumatic nerve injury induced by partial sciatic nerve ligation. TAT-GESV also blocked the paclitaxel-induced phosphorylation at Ser15 of p53, a substrate of p38 MAPK. Finally, TAT-GESV (i.t.) did not induce NMDAR-mediated motor ataxia in the rotarod test and did not alter basal nociceptive thresholds in the radiant heat tail-flick test. These observations support the hypothesis that antiallodynic efficacy of an nNOS-NOS1AP disruptor may result, at least in part, from blockade of p38 MAPK-mediated downstream effects. Our studies demonstrate, for the first time, that disrupting nNOS-NOS1AP protein-protein interactions attenuates mechanistically distinct forms of neuropathic pain without unwanted motor ataxic effects of NMDAR antagonists.
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RNA Sequencing of Peripheral Blood Revealed that the Neurotropic TRK Receptor Signaling Pathway Shows Apparent Correlation in Recovery Following Spinal Cord Injury at Small Cohort. J Mol Neurosci 2019; 68:221-233. [PMID: 30993646 DOI: 10.1007/s12031-019-01273-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) can be lethal; however, the precise mechanisms underlying healing are unclear, limiting the development of effective therapies. In this study, the molecular mechanisms involved in SCI were investigated. Clinical peripheral blood samples from normal individuals and patients with incomplete SCI (ISCI) and complete SCI (CSCI) were analyzed by RNA-Seq. The expression levels of EPHA4, CDK16, BAD, MAP2 Normal 2, EGR, and RHOB differed significantly between the SCI group and normal individuals, and these results were verified by q-PCR. A gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis showed that differentially expressed genes were mostly enriched for the neurotrophin TRK receptor signaling pathway. We verified the expression of neurotrophic factors and found that they were all expressed most highly in the SCI group. The results of this study demonstrate that neurotrophic factors are highly expressed after SCI and the neurotrophin TRK receptor signaling pathway may be involved in the initiation of nerve system regeneration.
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Liu Z, Chen S, Qiu C, Sun Y, Li W, Jiang J, Zhang JM. Fractalkine/CX3CR1 Contributes to Endometriosis-Induced Neuropathic Pain and Mechanical Hypersensitivity in Rats. Front Cell Neurosci 2018; 12:495. [PMID: 30622457 PMCID: PMC6309014 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2018.00495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is the most severe and common symptom of endometriosis. Its underlying pathogenetic mechanism is poorly understood. Nerve sensitization is a particular research challenge, due to the limitations of general endometriosis models and sampling nerve tissue from patients. The chemokine fractalkine (FKN) has been demonstrated to play a key role in various forms of neuropathic pain, while its role in endometriotic pain is unknown. Our study was designed to explore the function of FKN in the development and maintenance of peripheral hyperalgesia and central sensitization in endometriosis using a novel endometriosis animal model developed in our laboratory. After modeling, behavioral tests were carried out and the optimal time for molecular changes was obtained. We extracted ectopic tissues and L4-6 spinal cords to detect peripheral and central roles for FKN, respectively. To assess morphologic characteristics of endometriosis-like lesions-as well as expression and location of FKN/CX3CR1-we performed H&E staining, immunostaining, and western blotting analyses. Furthermore, inhibition of FKN expression in the spinal cord was achieved by intrathecal administration of an FKN-neutralizing antibody to demonstrate its function. Our results showed that implanted autologous uterine tissue around the sciatic nerve induced endometriosis-like lesions and produced mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia. FKN was highly expressed on macrophages, whereas its receptor CX3CR1 was overexpressed in the myelin sheath of sciatic nerve fibers. Overexpressed FKN was also observed in neurons. CX3CR1/pp38-MAPK was upregulated in activated microglia in the spinal dorsal horn. Intrathecal administration of FKN-neutralizing antibody not only reversed the established mechanical hyperalgesia and allodynia, but also inhibited the expression of CX3CR1/pp38-MAPK in activated microglia, which was essential for the persistence of central sensitization. We concluded that the FKN/CX3CR1 signaling pathway might be one of the mechanisms of peripheral hyperalgesia in endometriosis, which requires further studies. Spinal FKN is important for the development and maintenance of central sensitization in endometriosis, and it may further serve as a novel therapeutic target to relieve persistent pain associated with endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiming Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Sisi Chen
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
| | - Chunping Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yaqiong Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shandong Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Jinan, China
| | - Wenzhi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China.,Key Laboratory of Gynecologic Oncology of Shandong Province, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Jun-Ming Zhang
- Pain Research Center, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH, United States
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Spinal Cord Stimulation for Pain Treatment After Spinal Cord Injury. Neurosci Bull 2018; 35:527-539. [PMID: 30560438 DOI: 10.1007/s12264-018-0320-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 08/11/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to restoration of bladder, bowel, and motor functions, alleviating the accompanying debilitating pain is equally important for improving the quality of life of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). Currently, however, the treatment of chronic pain after SCI remains a largely unmet need. Electrical spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used to manage a variety of chronic pain conditions that are refractory to pharmacotherapy. Yet, its efficacy, benefit profiles, and mechanisms of action in SCI pain remain elusive, due to limited research, methodological weaknesses in previous clinical studies, and a lack of mechanistic exploration of SCS for SCI pain control. We aim to review recent studies and outline the therapeutic potential of different SCS paradigms for traumatic SCI pain. We begin with an overview of its manifestations, classification, potential underlying etiology, and current challenges for its treatment. The clinical evidence for using SCS in SCI pain is then reviewed. Finally, future perspectives of pre-clinical research and clinical study of SCS for SCI pain treatment are discussed.
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Zhang X, Hartung JE, Bortsov AV, Kim S, O'Buckley SC, Kozlowski J, Nackley AG. Sustained stimulation of β 2- and β 3-adrenergic receptors leads to persistent functional pain and neuroinflammation. Brain Behav Immun 2018; 73:520-532. [PMID: 29935309 PMCID: PMC6129429 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2018.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Functional pain syndromes, such as fibromyalgia and temporomandibular disorder, are associated with enhanced catecholamine tone and decreased levels of catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT; an enzyme that metabolizes catecholamines). Consistent with clinical syndromes, our lab has shown that sustained 14-day delivery of the COMT inhibitor OR486 in rodents results in pain at multiple body sites and pain-related volitional behaviors. The onset of COMT-dependent functional pain is mediated by peripheral β2- and β3-adrenergic receptors (β2- and β3ARs) through the release of the pro-inflammatory cytokines tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6). Here, we first sought to investigate the role of β2- and β3ARs and downstream mediators in the maintenance of persistent functional pain. We then aimed to characterize the resulting persistent inflammation in neural tissues (neuroinflammation), characterized by activated glial cells and phosphorylation of the mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) p38 and extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK). Separate groups of rats were implanted with subcutaneous osmotic mini-pumps to deliver OR486 (15 mg/kg/day) or vehicle for 14 days. The β2AR antagonist ICI118551 and β3AR antagonist SR59230A were co-administrated subcutaneously with OR486 or vehicle either on day 0 or day 7. The TNFα inhibitor Etanercept, the p38 inhibitor SB203580, or the ERK inhibitor U0126 were delivered intrathecally following OR486 cessation on day 14. Behavioral responses, pro-inflammatory cytokine levels, glial cell activation, and MAPK phosphorylation were measured over the course of 35 days. Our results demonstrate that systemic delivery of OR486 leads to mechanical hypersensitivity that persists for at least 3 weeks after OR486 cessation. Corresponding increases in spinal TNFα, IL-1β, and IL-6 levels, microglia and astrocyte activation, and neuronal p38 and ERK phosphorylation were observed on days 14-35. Persistent functional pain was alleviated by systemic delivery of ICI118551 and SR59230A beginning on day 0, but not day 7, and by spinal delivery of Etanercept or SB203580 beginning on day 14. These results suggest that peripheral β2- and β3ARs drive persistent COMT-dependent functional pain via increased activation of immune cells and production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which promote neuroinflammation and nociceptor activation. Thus, therapies that resolve neuroinflammation may prove useful in the management of functional pain syndromes.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Catechol O-Methyltransferase/metabolism
- Catechol O-Methyltransferase Inhibitors/metabolism
- Catechols/pharmacology
- Cytokines/metabolism
- Etanercept/pharmacology
- Female
- Fibromyalgia/metabolism
- Fibromyalgia/physiopathology
- Hyperalgesia/metabolism
- Imidazoles/pharmacology
- Interleukin-1beta/metabolism
- Interleukin-6/metabolism
- Male
- Microglia/metabolism
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases
- Neuroglia/metabolism
- Pain/metabolism
- Pain/physiopathology
- Phosphorylation
- Propanolamines/pharmacology
- Pyridines/pharmacology
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta/metabolism
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-2/drug effects
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-2/metabolism
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-2/physiology
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3/drug effects
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3/metabolism
- Receptors, Adrenergic, beta-3/physiology
- Spinal Cord/metabolism
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/metabolism
- Temporomandibular Joint Disorders/physiopathology
- Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha/metabolism
- p38 Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Zhang
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Pain Management Center, Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jane E Hartung
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Andrey V Bortsov
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Seungtae Kim
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA; Division of Meridian and Structural Medicine, School of Korean Medicine, Pusan National University, Republic of Korea
| | - Sandra C O'Buckley
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Julia Kozlowski
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Andrea G Nackley
- Center for Translational Pain Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, USA.
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42
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Glucocorticoid receptor inhibit the activity of NF-κB through p38 signaling pathway in spinal cord in the spared nerve injury rats. Life Sci 2018; 208:268-275. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 07/06/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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43
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Ibudilast produces anti-allodynic effects at the persistent phase of peripheral or central neuropathic pain in rats: Different inhibitory mechanism on spinal microglia from minocycline and propentofylline. Eur J Pharmacol 2018; 833:263-274. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2018.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2017] [Revised: 06/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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44
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Shiao R, Lee-Kubli CA. Neuropathic Pain After Spinal Cord Injury: Challenges and Research Perspectives. Neurotherapeutics 2018; 15:635-653. [PMID: 29736857 PMCID: PMC6095789 DOI: 10.1007/s13311-018-0633-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a debilitating consequence of spinal cord injury (SCI) that remains difficult to treat because underlying mechanisms are not yet fully understood. In part, this is due to limitations of evaluating neuropathic pain in animal models in general, and SCI rodents in particular. Though pain in patients is primarily spontaneous, with relatively few patients experiencing evoked pains, animal models of SCI pain have primarily relied upon evoked withdrawals. Greater use of operant tasks for evaluation of the affective dimension of pain in rodents is needed, but these tests have their own limitations such that additional studies of the relationship between evoked withdrawals and operant outcomes are recommended. In preclinical SCI models, enhanced reflex withdrawal or pain responses can arise from pathological changes that occur at any point along the sensory neuraxis. Use of quantitative sensory testing for identification of optimal treatment approach may yield improved identification of treatment options and clinical trial design. Additionally, a better understanding of the differences between mechanisms contributing to at- versus below-level neuropathic pain and neuropathic pain versus spasticity may shed insights into novel treatment options. Finally, the role of patient characteristics such as age and sex in pathogenesis of neuropathic SCI pain remains to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani Shiao
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 N. Torrey Pines, La Jolla, California, 92073, USA
| | - Corinne A Lee-Kubli
- Molecular Neurobiology Laboratory, The Salk Institute for Biological Studies, 10010 N. Torrey Pines, La Jolla, California, 92073, USA.
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45
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Bhowmick S, D'Mello V, Abdul-Muneer PM. Synergistic Inhibition of ERK1/2 and JNK, Not p38, Phosphorylation Ameliorates Neuronal Damages After Traumatic Brain Injury. Mol Neurobiol 2018; 56:1124-1136. [PMID: 29873042 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-018-1132-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Mitogen-activated protein (MAP) kinases are serine/threonine protein kinases that play a critical role in signal transduction and are activated by phosphorylation in response to a variety of pathophysiology stimuli. While MAP kinase signaling has a significant role in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases, the precise function of activation of MAP kinase in traumatic brain injury (TBI) is unknown. Therefore, it is important to study the role of MAP kinase signaling in TBI-associated neurological ailments. In this study, using an in vitro stretch injury model in rat embryo neuronal cultures and the in vivo fluid percussion injury (FPI) model in rats, we explored the role of MAP kinase signaling in the mechanisms of cell death in TBI. Our study demonstrated that the stretch injury in vitro and FPI in vivo upregulated the phosphorylation of MAP kinase proteins ERK1/2 and JNK, but not p38. Using ERK1/2 inhibitor U0126, JNK inhibitor SP600125, and p38 inhibitor SB203580, we validated the role of MAP kinase proteins in the activation of NF-kB and caspase-3. By immunofluorescence and western blotting, further, we demonstrated the role of ERK1/2 and JNK phosphorylation in neurodegeneration by analyzing cell death proteins annexin V and Poly-ADP-Ribose-Polymerase p85. Interestingly, combined use of ERK1/2 and JNK inhibitors further attenuated the cell death in stretch-injured neurons. In conclusion, this study could establish the significance of MAP kinase signaling in the pathophysiology of TBI and may have significant implications for developing therapeutic strategies using ERK1/2 and JNK inhibitors for TBI-associated neurological complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saurav Bhowmick
- Laboratory of CNS Injury and Repair, JFK Neuroscience Institute, Hackensack Meridian Health JFK Medical Center, 65 James St., Edison, NJ, 08820, USA
| | - Veera D'Mello
- Laboratory of CNS Injury and Repair, JFK Neuroscience Institute, Hackensack Meridian Health JFK Medical Center, 65 James St., Edison, NJ, 08820, USA
| | - P M Abdul-Muneer
- Laboratory of CNS Injury and Repair, JFK Neuroscience Institute, Hackensack Meridian Health JFK Medical Center, 65 James St., Edison, NJ, 08820, USA.
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46
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Yuan Y, Zhang Y, He X, Fan S. Protective Effects of Sinomenine on CFA-Induced Inflammatory Pain in Rats. Med Sci Monit 2018; 24:2018-2024. [PMID: 29620048 PMCID: PMC5903310 DOI: 10.12659/msm.906726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of sinomenine (SIN) on CFA-induced inflammatory pain in rats, and to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. Material/Methods To determine the potential influences of SIN in the pathogenesis of inflammatory pain, an inflammatory pain (IP) mouse model was established and rats were treated with SIN (30 mg/kg). Behavioral tests were used to assess the MWT and TWL of the rats. ELISA assay was used to detect the level of inflammation cytokines. Western blotting and qRT-PCR were carried out to measure the related protein and mRNA expression level, respectively. Results We found that the MWT and TWL of the CFA-treated rats were markedly lower than that of the control rats, and they were significantly increased by SIN administration. The results suggest that IP rats had higher levels of TNF-α, IL-1β and IL-6 compared with the control rats. SIN administration decreased the levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. In addition, we found that p-p65 and p-p38 expression notably decreased after SIN treatment in IP rats. Moreover, the results showed that SIN inhibited Cox-2 and PGE2 expression in IP rats. Conclusions The data indicate that SIN had a protective role in inflammatory pain through repressing inflammatory mediators via preventing the p38MAPK-NF-κB pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Changzhou and The Third Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
| | - Yongjun Zhang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Changzhou and The Third Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
| | - Xiaofeng He
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Changzhou and The Third Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
| | - Shengdeng Fan
- Department of Anesthesiology, The First People's Hospital of Changzhou and The Third Affiliated Hospital, Suzhou University, Changzhou, Jiangsu, China (mainland)
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47
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Fan XC, Fu S, Liu FY, Cui S, Yi M, Wan Y. Hypersensitivity of Prelimbic Cortex Neurons Contributes to Aggravated Nociceptive Responses in Rats With Experience of Chronic Inflammatory Pain. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:85. [PMID: 29623029 PMCID: PMC5874315 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2017] [Accepted: 03/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous experience of chronic pain causes enhanced responses to upcoming noxious events in both humans and animals, but the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we found that rats with complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced chronic inflammatory pain experience exhibited aggravated pain responses to later formalin test. Enhanced neuronal activation upon formalin assaults and increased phosphorylated cAMP-response element binding protein (CREB) were observed in the prelimbic cortex (PL) of rats with chronic inflammatory pain experience, and inhibiting PL neuronal activities reversed the aggravated pain. Inflammatory pain experience induced persistent p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK; p38) but not extracellular regulated protein kinase (ERK) or c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) hyperphosphorylation in the PL. Inhibiting the p38 phosphorylation in PL reversed the aggravated nociceptive responses to formalin test and down-regulated enhanced phosphorylated CREB in the PL. Chemogenetics identified PL-periaqueductal gray (PAG) but not PL-nucleus accumbens (NAc) as a key pathway in inducing the aggravated formalin pain. Our results demonstrate that persistent hyperphosphorylation of p38 in the PL underlies aggravated nociceptive responses in rats with chronic inflammatory pain experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiao-Cen Fan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Su Fu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Feng-Yu Liu
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Shuang Cui
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Yi
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - You Wan
- Neuroscience Research Institute and Department of Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory for Neuroscience, Ministry of Education/National Health and Family Planning Commission, Peking University, Beijing, China
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48
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Liu X, Huang S, Liu C, Liu X, Shen Y, Cui Z. PPP1CC is associated with astrocyte and microglia proliferation after traumatic spinal cord injury in rats. Pathol Res Pract 2017; 213:1355-1364. [DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2017.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Revised: 09/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Neuronal-Glial Interactions Maintain Chronic Neuropathic Pain after Spinal Cord Injury. Neural Plast 2017; 2017:2480689. [PMID: 28951789 PMCID: PMC5603132 DOI: 10.1155/2017/2480689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Revised: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
The hyperactive state of sensory neurons in the spinal cord enhances pain transmission. Spinal glial cells have also been implicated in enhanced excitability of spinal dorsal horn neurons, resulting in pain amplification and distortions. Traumatic injuries of the neural system such as spinal cord injury (SCI) induce neuronal hyperactivity and glial activation, causing maladaptive synaptic plasticity in the spinal cord. Recent studies demonstrate that SCI causes persistent glial activation with concomitant neuronal hyperactivity, thus providing the substrate for central neuropathic pain. Hyperactive sensory neurons and activated glial cells increase intracellular and extracellular glutamate, neuropeptides, adenosine triphosphates, proinflammatory cytokines, and reactive oxygen species concentrations, all of which enhance pain transmission. In addition, hyperactive sensory neurons and glial cells overexpress receptors and ion channels that maintain this enhanced pain transmission. Therefore, post-SCI neuronal-glial interactions create maladaptive synaptic circuits and activate intracellular signaling events that permanently contribute to enhanced neuropathic pain. In this review, we describe how hyperactivity of sensory neurons contributes to the maintenance of chronic neuropathic pain via neuronal-glial interactions following SCI.
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Haefeli J, Huie JR, Morioka K, Ferguson AR. Assessments of sensory plasticity after spinal cord injury across species. Neurosci Lett 2017; 652:74-81. [PMID: 28007646 PMCID: PMC5466896 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2016.12.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2016] [Revised: 12/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a multifaceted phenomenon associated with alterations in both motor function and sensory function. A majority of patients with SCI report sensory disturbances, including not only loss of sensation, but in many cases enhanced abnormal sensation, dysesthesia and pain. Development of therapeutics to treat these abnormal sensory changes require common measurement tools that can enable cross-species translation from animal models to human patients. We review the current literature on translational nociception/pain measurement in SCI and discuss areas for further development. Although a number of tools exist for measuring both segmental and affective sensory changes, we conclude that there is a pressing need for better, integrative measurement of nociception/pain outcomes across species to enhance precise therapeutic innovation for sensory dysfunction in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Haefeli
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Brain and Spinal Injury Center (BASIC), Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - J Russell Huie
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Brain and Spinal Injury Center (BASIC), Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Kazuhito Morioka
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Brain and Spinal Injury Center (BASIC), Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Adam R Ferguson
- Weill Institute for Neurosciences, Brain and Spinal Injury Center (BASIC), Department of Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA; San Francisco Veteran's Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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