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Dogrul BN, Machado Kopruszinski C, Dolatyari Eslami M, Watanabe M, Luo S, Moreira de Souza LH, Vizin RL, Yue X, Palmiter RD, Navratilova E, Porreca F. Descending facilitation from rostral ventromedial medulla mu opioid receptor-expressing neurons is necessary for maintenance of sensory and affective dimensions of chronic neuropathic pain. Pain 2024:00006396-990000000-00665. [PMID: 39058958 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 06/06/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Pharmacological ablation of rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) mu opioid receptor-expressing cells before peripheral nerve injury prevents the development of neuropathic pain. However, whether these neurons are required for the expression of established neuropathic pain is not known. Male Oprm1Cre heterozygous (MORCre) or wild-type (MORWT) mice received AAV8-hSyn-DIO-hM4D(Gi)-mCherry in the RVM. After partial sciatic nerve ligation (PSNL), we evaluated pain behaviors and descending control of nociception in response to acute or sustained chemogenetic inhibition of RVM-MOR cells expressing hM4D(Gi). A single systemic administration of hM4D(Gi) agonist clozapine-N-oxide (CNO) reversibly inhibited hind paw tactile allodynia and produced conditioned place preference only in MORCre mice with PSNL. Intrathecal CNO also reversibly inhibited PSNL-induced hind paw allodynia, suggesting that the spinal projections from these RVM-MOR cells are critical for manifestation of pain behaviors. Consistent with enhanced descending facilitation from RVM-MOR cells, MORCre-hM4D(Gi) mice with PSNL showed diminished descending control of nociception that was restored by systemic CNO. Sustained CNO in drinking water before PSNL prevented expression of chronic pain without affecting acute surgical pain; however, relief of chronic pain required sustained CNO treatment. Thus, in male mice, activity of spinally projecting RVM-MOR cells is required (1) for expression and manifestation of both sensory and affective dimensions of established neuropathic pain and (2) to promote descending facilitation that overcomes apparently intact descending inhibition to maintain chronic pain. Enhanced descending facilitation likely regulates the output signal from the spinal cord to the brain to shape the pain experience and may provide a mechanism for nonopioid management of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bekir Nihat Dogrul
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | | | - Mahdi Dolatyari Eslami
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Moe Watanabe
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Shizhen Luo
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | | | - Robson Lilo Vizin
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Xu Yue
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Richard D Palmiter
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, United States
| | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
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Grajales-Reyes JG, Chen B, Meseguer D, Schneeberger M. Burning Question: How Does Our Brain Process Positive and Negative Cues Associated with Thermosensation? Physiology (Bethesda) 2024; 39:0. [PMID: 38536114 DOI: 10.1152/physiol.00034.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Whether it is the dramatic suffocating sensation from a heat wave in the summer or the positive reinforcement arising from a hot drink on a cold day; we can certainly agree that our thermal environment underlies our daily rhythms of sensation. Extensive research has focused on deciphering the central circuits responsible for conveying the impact of thermogenesis on mammalian behavior. Here, we revise the recent literature responsible for defining the behavioral correlates that arise from thermogenic fluctuations in mammals. We transition from the physiological significance of thermosensation to the circuitry responsible for the autonomic or behavioral responses associated with it. Subsequently, we delve into the positive and negative valence encoded by thermoregulatory processes. Importantly, we emphasize the crucial junctures where reward, pain, and thermoregulation intersect, unveiling a complex interplay within these neural circuits. Finally, we briefly outline fundamental questions that are pending to be addressed in the field. Fully deciphering the thermoregulatory circuitry in mammals will have far-reaching medical implications. For instance, it may lead to the identification of novel targets to overcome thermal pain or allow the maintenance of our core temperature in prolonged surgeries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jose G Grajales-Reyes
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Bandy Chen
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Laboratory of Neurovascular Control of Homeostasis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Wu Tsai Institute for Mind and Brain, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - David Meseguer
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Laboratory of Neurovascular Control of Homeostasis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Wu Tsai Institute for Mind and Brain, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
| | - Marc Schneeberger
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Laboratory of Neurovascular Control of Homeostasis, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
- Wu Tsai Institute for Mind and Brain, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, United States
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3
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Matsuda K, Kitano Y, Sawahata M, Kume T, Uta D. Mirogabalin inhibits scratching behavior of spontaneous model mouse of atopic dermatitis. Front Pharmacol 2024; 15:1382281. [PMID: 38989140 PMCID: PMC11234176 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2024.1382281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is one of the most prevalent intractable chronic itch diseases worldwide. In recent years, new molecular-targeted drugs have emerged, but side effects and economic challenges remain. Therefore, since it is important for AD patients to have a wider range of treatment options, it is important to explore new therapeutic agents. Gabapentinoids, gabapentin and pregabalin, have been shown to be effective for the clinical treatment of several chronic itch. Recently, mirogabalin (MGB) was developed as a novel gabapentinoid. MGB is a drug for neuropathic pain and has a margin of safety between its side effects and the analgesic effect for animal experiments. Herein, we showed that MGB exhibited an antipruritic effect in a mouse model of AD using NC/Nga mice. Methods and results: The oral administration of MGB (10 mg/kg) inhibited spontaneous scratching behavior in AD mice and its effect was dose dependently. Then, when MGB (10 mg/kg) was orally administrated to healthy mice, it did not affect motor function, including locomotor activity, wheel activity, and coordinated movement. Moreover, gabapentin (100 mg/kg) and pregabalin (30 mg/kg), inhibited spontaneous scratching behavior in AD mice and decreased motor function in healthy mice. Furthermore, intracisternal injection of MGB (10 μg/site) significantly suppressed spontaneous scratching behavior in AD mice. Discussion: In summary, our results suggest that MGB exerts an antipruritic effect via the spinal dorsal horn using NC/Nga mice. We hope that MGB is a candidate for a novel therapeutic agent for AD with relatively few side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosuke Matsuda
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Yutaka Kitano
- R&D Division, Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahito Sawahata
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Toshiaki Kume
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
| | - Daisuke Uta
- Department of Applied Pharmacology, Graduate School of Medicine and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Toyama, Sugitani, Toyama, Japan
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De Preter CC, Heinricher MM. The 'in's and out's' of descending pain modulation from the rostral ventromedial medulla. Trends Neurosci 2024; 47:447-460. [PMID: 38749825 PMCID: PMC11168876 DOI: 10.1016/j.tins.2024.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 04/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/14/2024]
Abstract
The descending-pain modulating circuit controls the experience of pain by modulating transmission of sensory signals through the dorsal horn. This circuit's key output node, the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM), integrates 'top-down' and 'bottom-up' inputs that regulate functionally defined RVM cell types, 'OFF-cells' and 'ON-cells', which respectively suppress or facilitate pain-related sensory processing. While recent advances have sought molecular definition of RVM cell types, conflicting behavioral findings highlight challenges involved in aligning functional and molecularly defined types. This review summarizes current understanding, derived primarily from rodent studies but with corroborating evidence from human imaging, of the role of RVM populations in pain modulation and persistent pain states and explores recent advances outlining inputs to, and outputs from, RVM pain-modulating neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlynn C De Preter
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA
| | - Mary M Heinricher
- Department of Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA; Department of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR 97239, USA.
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Chen Q, Zhao M, Dong J, Yang K. Chronic restraint stress-induced hyperalgesia is modulated by the periaqueductal gray neurons projecting to the rostral ventromedial medulla in mice. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 710:149875. [PMID: 38604073 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.149875] [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: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Stress-induced hyperalgesia (SIH) is induced by repeated or chronic exposure to stressful or uncomfortable environments. However, the neural mechanisms involved in the modulatory effects of the periaqueductal gray (PAG) and its associated loops on SIH development hav e not been elucidated. In the present study, we used chronic restraint stress (CRS)-induced hyperalgesia as a SIH model and manipulated neuronal activity via a pharmacogenetic approach to investigate the neural mechanism underlying the effects of descending pain-modulatory pathways on SIH. We found that activation of PAG neurons alleviates CRS-induced hyperalgesia; on the other hand, PAG neurons inhibition facilitates CRS-induced hyperalgesia. Moreover, this modulatory effect is achieved by the neurons which projecting to the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). Our data thus reveal the functional role of the PAG-RVM circuit in SIH and provide analgesic targets in the brain for clinical SIH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Chen
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China
| | - Mingwei Zhao
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China
| | - Jiaxue Dong
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China; Department of Pathology, Xinyang Central Hospital, Xinyang, Henan, 464099, China
| | - Kun Yang
- Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, 212013, China; Department of Anatomy, School of Health and Life Sciences, University of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Qingdao, Shandong, 266113, China.
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Zou Z, Fan W, Liu H, Liu Q, He H, Huang F. The roles of 5-HT in orofacial pain. Oral Dis 2024. [PMID: 38622872 DOI: 10.1111/odi.14960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Acute and chronic orofacial pain are very common and remain a vexing health problem that has a negative effect on the quality of life. Serotonin (5-HydroxyTryptamine, 5-HT) is a kind of monoamine neurotransmitter that is involved in many physiological and pathological processes. However, its role in orofacial pain remains inconclusive. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the recent advances in understanding the effect exerted by 5-HT on the modulation of orofacial pain. SUBJECTS AND METHODS An extensive search was conducted on PubMed and Web of Science for pertinent studies focusing on the effects of 5-HT on the modulation of orofacial pain. RESULTS In this review, we concisely review how 5-HT mediates orofacial pain, how 5-HT is regulated and how we can translate these findings into clinical applications for the prevention and/or treatment of orofacial pain. CONCLUSIONS 5-HT plays a key role in the modulation of orofacial pain, implying that 5-HT modulators may serve as effective treatment for orofacial pain. However, further research on the precise mechanisms underlying the modulation of orofacial pain is still warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhishan Zou
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenguo Fan
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Haotian Liu
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qing Liu
- Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, SAR, China
| | - Hongwen He
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Fang Huang
- Hospital of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Stomatology, Guangzhou, China
- Guanghua School of Stomatology, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Zhang H, Zhu Z, Ma WX, Kong LX, Yuan PC, Bu LF, Han J, Huang ZL, Wang YQ. The contribution of periaqueductal gray in the regulation of physiological and pathological behaviors. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1380171. [PMID: 38650618 PMCID: PMC11034386 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1380171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Periaqueductal gray (PAG), an integration center for neuronal signals, is located in the midbrain and regulates multiple physiological and pathological behaviors, including pain, defensive and aggressive behaviors, anxiety and depression, cardiovascular response, respiration, and sleep-wake behaviors. Due to the different neuroanatomical connections and functional characteristics of the four functional columns of PAG, different subregions of PAG synergistically regulate various instinctual behaviors. In the current review, we summarized the role and possible neurobiological mechanism of different subregions of PAG in the regulation of pain, defensive and aggressive behaviors, anxiety, and depression from the perspective of the up-down neuronal circuits of PAG. Furthermore, we proposed the potential clinical applications of PAG. Knowledge of these aspects will give us a better understanding of the key role of PAG in physiological and pathological behaviors and provide directions for future clinical treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Zhang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Screening and Re-evaluation of Active Compounds of Herbal Medicines in Southern Anhui, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center for Polysaccharide Drugs, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Zhe Zhu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei-Xiang Ma
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling-Xi Kong
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping-Chuan Yuan
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Screening and Re-evaluation of Active Compounds of Herbal Medicines in Southern Anhui, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center for Polysaccharide Drugs, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Li-Fang Bu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Han
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Laboratory for Screening and Re-evaluation of Active Compounds of Herbal Medicines in Southern Anhui, Anhui Provincial Engineering Research Center for Polysaccharide Drugs, Wannan Medical College, Wuhu, China
| | - Zhi-Li Huang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi-Qun Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science and Collaborative Innovation Center for Brain Science, Joint International Research Laboratory of Sleep, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Sharif A, Matsumoto J, Choijiljav C, Badarch A, Setogawa T, Nishijo H, Nishimaru H. Characterization of Ultrasonic Vocalization-Modulated Neurons in Rat Motor Cortex Based on Their Activity Modulation and Axonal Projection to the Periaqueductal Gray. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0452-23.2024. [PMID: 38490744 PMCID: PMC10988357 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0452-23.2024] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Vocalization, a means of social communication, is prevalent among many species, including humans. Both rats and mice use ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) in various social contexts and affective states. The motor cortex is hypothesized to be involved in precisely controlling USVs through connections with critical regions of the brain for vocalization, such as the periaqueductal gray matter (PAG). However, it is unclear how neurons in the motor cortex are modulated during USVs. Moreover, the relationship between USV modulation of neurons and anatomical connections from the motor cortex to PAG is also not clearly understood. In this study, we first characterized the activity patterns of neurons in the primary and secondary motor cortices during emission of USVs in rats using large-scale electrophysiological recordings. We also examined the axonal projection of the motor cortex to PAG using retrograde labeling and identified two clusters of PAG-projecting neurons in the anterior and posterior parts of the motor cortex. The neural activity patterns around the emission of USVs differed between the anterior and posterior regions, which were divided based on the distribution of PAG-projecting neurons in the motor cortex. Furthermore, using optogenetic tagging, we recorded the USV modulation of PAG-projecting neurons in the posterior part of the motor cortex and found that they showed predominantly sustained excitatory responses during USVs. These results contribute to our understanding of the involvement of the motor cortex in the generation of USV at the neuronal and circuit levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aamir Sharif
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Jumpei Matsumoto
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Chinzorig Choijiljav
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Amarbayasgalant Badarch
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Tsuyoshi Setogawa
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
| | - Hisao Nishijo
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
- Department of Sport and Health Sciences, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of East Asia, Shimonoseki 751-0807, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Nishimaru
- Department of System Emotional Science, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
- Research Center for Idling Brain Science, University of Toyama, Toyama 930-0194, Japan
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Xu J, Zhang H, Chen D, Xu K, Li Z, Wu H, Geng X, Wei X, Wu J, Cui W, Wei S. Looking for a Beam of Light to Heal Chronic Pain. J Pain Res 2024; 17:1091-1105. [PMID: 38510563 PMCID: PMC10953534 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s455549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain (CP) is a leading cause of disability and a potential factor that affects biological processes, family relationships, and self-esteem of patients. However, the need for treatment of CP is presently unmet. Current methods of pain management involve the use of drugs, but there are different degrees of concerning side effects. At present, the potential mechanisms underlying CP are not completely clear. As research progresses and novel therapeutic approaches are developed, the shortcomings of current pain treatment methods may be overcome. In this review, we discuss the retinal photoreceptors and brain regions associated with photoanalgesia, as well as the targets involved in photoanalgesia, shedding light on its potential underlying mechanisms. Our aim is to provide a foundation to understand the mechanisms underlying CP and develop light as a novel analgesic treatment has its biological regulation principle for CP. This approach may provide an opportunity to drive the field towards future translational, clinical studies and support pain drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hao Zhang
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Dan Chen
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Kaiyong Xu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Zifa Li
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hongyun Wu
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xiwen Geng
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Xia Wei
- NMPA Key Laboratory for Research and Evaluation of Generic Drugs, Shandong Institute for Food and Drug Control, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jibiao Wu
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Wenqiang Cui
- Department of Neurology, Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
| | - Sheng Wei
- The Key Laboratory of Traditional Chinese Medicine Classic Theory of Ministry of Education, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
- Chinese Medicine and Brain Science Interdisciplinary Research Institute, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ji’nan, Shandong, People’s Republic of China
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Xue Y, Mo S, Li Y, Cao Y, Xu X, Xie Q. Dissecting neural circuits from rostral ventromedial medulla to spinal trigeminal nucleus bidirectionally modulating craniofacial mechanical sensitivity. Prog Neurobiol 2024; 232:102561. [PMID: 38142769 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2023.102561] [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: 08/27/2023] [Revised: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Chronic craniofacial pain is intractable and its mechanisms remain unclarified. The rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) plays a crucial role in descending pain facilitation and inhibition. It is unclear how the descending circuits from the RVM to spinal trigeminal nucleus (Sp5) are organized to bidirectionally modulate craniofacial nociception. We used viral tracing, in vivo optogenetics, calcium signaling recording, and chemogenetic manipulations to investigate the structure and function of RVM-Sp5 circuits. We found that most RVM neurons projecting to Sp5 were GABAergic or glutamatergic and facilitated or inhibited craniofacial nociception, respectively. Both GABAergic interneurons and glutamatergic projection neurons in Sp5 received RVM inputs: the former were antinociceptive, whereas the latter were pronociceptive. Furthermore, we demonstrated activation of both GABAergic and glutamatergic Sp5 neurons receiving RVM inputs in inflammation- or dysfunction-induced masseter hyperalgesia. Activating GABAergic Sp5 neurons or inhibiting glutamatergic Sp5 neurons that receive RVM projections reversed masseter hyperalgesia. Our study identifies specific cell types and projections of RVM-Sp5 circuits involved in facilitating or inhibiting craniofacial nociception respectively. Selective manipulation of RVM-Sp5 circuits can be used as potential treatment strategy to relieve chronic craniofacial muscle pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yang Xue
- Department of Prosthodontics, Center for Oral and Jaw Functional Diagnosis, Treatment and Research, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Siyi Mo
- Department of Prosthodontics, Center for Oral and Jaw Functional Diagnosis, Treatment and Research, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Yuan Li
- Department of Prosthodontics, Center for Oral and Jaw Functional Diagnosis, Treatment and Research, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing 100081, PR China
| | - Ye Cao
- Department of Prosthodontics, Center for Oral and Jaw Functional Diagnosis, Treatment and Research, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing 100081, PR China.
| | - Xiaoxiang Xu
- Department of Prosthodontics, Center for Oral and Jaw Functional Diagnosis, Treatment and Research, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing 100081, PR China.
| | - Qiufei Xie
- Department of Prosthodontics, Center for Oral and Jaw Functional Diagnosis, Treatment and Research, Peking University School and Hospital of Stomatology & National Center for Stomatology & National Clinical Research Center for Oral Diseases & National Engineering Research Center of Oral Biomaterials and Digital Medical Devices, Beijing 100081, PR China.
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Follansbee T, Le Chang H, Iodi Carstens M, Guan Y, Carstens E, Dong X. Optotagging and characterization of GABAergic rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM) neurons. Mol Pain 2024; 20:17448069241270295. [PMID: 39054310 DOI: 10.1177/17448069241270295] [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] [Indexed: 07/27/2024] Open
Abstract
The transmission of nociceptive and pruriceptive signals in the spinal cord is greatly influenced by descending modulation from brain areas such as the rostral ventromedial medulla (RVM). Within the RVM three classes of neurons have been discovered which are relevant to spinal pain modulation, the On, Off, and Neutral cells. These neurons were discovered due to their functional response to nociceptive stimulation. On cells are excited, Off cells are inhibited, and Neutral cells have no response to noxious stimulation. Since these neurons are identified by functional response characteristics it has been difficult to molecularly identify them. In the present study, we leverage our ability to perform optotagging within the RVM to determine whether RVM On, Off, and Neutral cells are GABAergic. We found that 27.27% of RVM On cells, 47.37% of RVM Off cells, and 42.6% of RVM Neutral cells were GABAergic. These results demonstrate that RVM On, Off, and Neutral cells represent a heterogeneous population of neurons and provide a reliable technique for the molecular identification of these neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taylor Follansbee
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Henry Le Chang
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Mirela Iodi Carstens
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Yun Guan
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Earl Carstens
- Department of Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior, University of California Davis, Davis, CA, USA
| | - Xinzhong Dong
- Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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