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Han G, Li X, Wen CH, Wu S, He L, Tan C, Nivar J, Bekker A, Davidson S, Tao YX. FUS Contributes to Nerve Injury-Induced Nociceptive Hypersensitivity by Activating NF-κB Pathway in Primary Sensory Neurons. J Neurosci 2023; 43:1267-1278. [PMID: 36627209 PMCID: PMC9962786 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.2082-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2022] [Revised: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Dysregulation of pain-associated genes in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG) is considered to be a molecular basis of neuropathic pain genesis. Fused in sarcoma (FUS), a DNA/RNA-binding protein, is a critical regulator of gene expression. However, whether it contributes to neuropathic pain is unknown. This study showed that peripheral nerve injury caused by the fourth lumbar (L4) spinal nerve ligation (SNL) or chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve produced a marked increase in the expression of FUS protein in injured DRG neurons. Blocking this increase through microinjection of the adeno-associated virus (AAV) 5-expressing Fus shRNA into the ipsilateral L4 DRG mitigated the SNL-induced nociceptive hypersensitivities in both male and female mice. This microinjection also alleviated the SNL-induced increases in the levels of phosphorylated extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (p-ERK1/2) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the ipsilateral L4 dorsal horn. Furthermore, mimicking this increase through microinjection of AAV5 expressing full-length Fus mRNA into unilateral L3/4 DRGs produced the elevations in the levels of p-ERK1/2 and GFAP in the dorsal horn, enhanced responses to mechanical, heat and cold stimuli, and induced the spontaneous pain on the ipsilateral side of both male and female mice in the absence of SNL. Mechanistically, the increased FUS activated the NF-κB signaling pathway by promoting the translocation of p65 into the nucleus and phosphorylation of p65 in the nucleus from injured DRG neurons. Our results indicate that DRG FUS contributes to neuropathic pain likely through the activation of NF-κB in primary sensory neurons.SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT In the present study, we reported that fused in sarcoma (FUS), a DNA/RNA-binding protein, is upregulated in injured dorsal root ganglion (DRG) following peripheral nerve injury. This upregulation is responsible for nerve injury-induced translocation of p65 into the nucleus and phosphorylation of p65 in the nucleus from injured DRG neurons. Because blocking this upregulation alleviates nerve injury-induced nociceptive hypersensitivity, DRG FUS participates in neuropathic pain likely through the activation of NF-κB in primary sensory neurons. FUS may be a potential target for neuropathic pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guang Han
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Xiang Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Chun-Hsien Wen
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Shaogen Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Long He
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Cynthia Tan
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - John Nivar
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Alex Bekker
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
| | - Steve Davidson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Research Center, and Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio 45267
| | - Yuan-Xiang Tao
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology & Neuroscience, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
- Departments of Cell Biology & Molecular Medicine, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, New Jersey 07103
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Gale JR, Gedeon JY, Donnelly CJ, Gold MS. Local translation in primary afferents and its contribution to pain. Pain 2022; 163:2302-2314. [PMID: 35438669 PMCID: PMC9579217 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Chronic pain remains a significant problem due to its prevalence, impact, and limited therapeutic options. Progress in addressing chronic pain is dependent on a better understanding of underlying mechanisms. Although the available evidence suggests that changes within the central nervous system contribute to the initiation and maintenance of chronic pain, it also suggests that the primary afferent plays a critical role in all phases of the manifestation of chronic pain in most of those who suffer. Most notable among the changes in primary afferents is an increase in excitability or sensitization. A number of mechanisms have been identified that contribute to primary afferent sensitization with evidence for both increases in pronociceptive signaling molecules, such as voltage-gated sodium channels, and decreases in antinociceptive signaling molecules, such as voltage-dependent or calcium-dependent potassium channels. Furthermore, these changes in signaling molecules seem to reflect changes in gene expression as well as posttranslational processing. A mechanism of sensitization that has received far less attention, however, is the local or axonal translation of these signaling molecules. A growing body of evidence indicates that this process not only is dynamically regulated but also contributes to the initiation and maintenance of chronic pain. Here, we review the biology of local translation in primary afferents and its relevance to pain pathobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna R Gale
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | - Jeremy Y Gedeon
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213
| | | | - Michael S Gold
- Corresponding author: Michael S Gold, PhD, Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, P: 412-383-5367,
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3
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Nirvanie-Persaud L, Millis RM. Epigenetics and Pain: New Insights to an Old Problem. Cureus 2022; 14:e29353. [PMID: 36159345 PMCID: PMC9487372 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.29353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Physicians and neuroscientists have long observed that factors such as thoughts, emotions, and expectations can influence the perception of pain. Pain can be described as an unpleasant sensation that causes physical discomfort and emotional distress. It alerts an individual to seek help and is the main complaint that brings individuals to physicians. Though it is associated with probable tissue damage, such damage may be subtle, sometimes involving the release of algesic chemicals, and also influenced by attitudes, beliefs, personality, and social factors. The perception of pain may vary due to a multitude of these factors influencing the ascending sensory impulse propagation to the primary somatosensory cortex. The genetics and epigenetics of pain modulators have been previously studied, but there is a lack of application in the everyday management and treatment of pain due to the paucity of valid evidence-based data. We used the PubMed database as our primary tool for researching current literature on this topic. The MeSH terms used included: gene modification, epigenetics, genes, pain, analgesia, “types of pain, and theories of pain. The results were filtered as follows: publications within the last 10 years, generalized pain studies regarding the biopsychosocial aspect of pain, pertinent genes, and epigenetic modulation of those genes; 52 publications were selected for review. By addressing the external factorial causes and the appropriate application of epigenetic principles which affect pain perception, it is hoped that this review will motivate future advancements in the management of acute and/or chronic pain.
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Noguri T, Hatakeyama D, Kitahashi T, Oka K, Ito E. Profile of dorsal root ganglion neurons: study of oxytocin expression. Mol Brain 2022; 15:44. [PMID: 35534837 PMCID: PMC9082903 DOI: 10.1186/s13041-022-00927-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Although dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons have been so far classified according to the difference in their fibers (Aβ, Aδ, and C), this classification should be further subdivided according to gene expression patterns. We focused on oxytocin (OXT) and its related receptors, because OXT plays a local role in DRG neurons. We measured the mRNA levels of OXT, OXT receptor (OXTR), vasopressin V1a receptor (V1aR), transient receptor potential cation channel subfamily V member 1 (TRPV1), and piezo-type mechanosensitive ion channel component 2 (Piezo2) in single DRG neurons by using real-time PCR, and then performed a cluster analysis. According to the gene expression patterns, DRG neurons were classified into 4 clusters: Cluster 1 was characterized mainly by Piezo2, Cluster 2 by TRPV1, Cluster 4 by OXTR, and neurons in Cluster 3 did not express any of the target genes. The cell body diameter of OXT-expressing neurons was significantly larger in Cluster 1 than in Cluster 2. These results suggest that OXT-expressing DRG neurons with small cell bodies (Cluster 2) and large cell bodies (Cluster 1) probably correspond to C-fiber neurons and Aβ-fiber neurons, respectively. Furthermore, the OXT-expressing neurons contained not only TRPV1 but also Piezo2, suggesting that OXT may be released by mechanical stimulation regardless of nociception. Thus, mechanoreception and nociception themselves may induce the autocrine/paracrine function of OXT in the DRG, contributing to alleviation of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taisei Noguri
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, Tokyo, 162-8480, Japan
| | - Dai Hatakeyama
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokushima Bunri University, Tokushima, 770-8514, Japan
| | - Takashi Kitahashi
- Kushiro Nature Conservation Office, Ministry of the Environment, Kushiro, 085-8639, Japan
| | - Kotaro Oka
- Department of Biosciences and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, Yokohama, 223-8522, Japan
- Waseda Research Institute for Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, 169-8555, Japan
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan
| | - Etsuro Ito
- Department of Biology, Waseda University, Tokyo, 162-8480, Japan.
- Waseda Research Institute for Science and Engineering, Waseda University, Tokyo, 169-8555, Japan.
- Graduate Institute of Medicine, School of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, 80708, Taiwan.
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Martínez-Lavín M, Vargas A, Silveira LH, Amezcua-Guerra LM, Martínez-Martínez LA, Pineda C. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Evolving to Full-Blown Fibromyalgia: A Proposal of Common Mechanisms. J Clin Rheumatol 2021; 27:S274-S277. [PMID: 32028304 DOI: 10.1097/rhu.0000000000001304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Spread of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) outside the affected limb is a well-recognized phenomenon; nevertheless, the actual evolution from CRPS to fibromyalgia is poorly documented. Similar mechanisms have been recently put forward to explain the development of CRPS and fibromyalgia including dorsal root ganglia (DRG) hyperexcitability and small fiber neuropathy. OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were to describe 3 cases with typical CRPS evolving to full-blown fibromyalgia and to discuss the potential pathogenetic mechanisms linking these debilitating illnesses. METHODS This was a review of medical records and PubMed search on the relationship between CRPS-fibromyalgia with DRG and small nerve fiber neuropathy. RESULTS Our 3 cases displayed over time orderly evolution from CRPS to fibromyalgia. Dorsal root ganglion hyperexcitability and small fiber neuropathy have been recently demonstrated in CRPS and in fibromyalgia. Dorsal root ganglia contain the small nerve fiber cell bodies surrounded by glial cells. After trauma, DRG perineuronal glial cells produce diverse proinflammatory mediators. Macrophages, lymphocytes, and satellite glial cells may drive the immune response to more rostrally and caudally located DRG and other spinal cord sites. Dorsal root ganglion metabolic changes may lead to small nerve fiber degeneration. This mechanism may explain the development of widespread pain and autonomic dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Clinicians should be aware that CRPS can evolve to full-blown fibromyalgia. Spreading of neuroinflammation through DRG glial cell activation could theoretically explain the transformation from regional to generalized complex pain syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Angelica Vargas
- From the Rheumatology Department, National Institute of Cardiology
| | - Luis H Silveira
- From the Rheumatology Department, National Institute of Cardiology
| | | | | | - Carlos Pineda
- Division of Musculoskeletal and Rheumatic Disorders, National Institute of Rehabilitation, Mexico City, Mexico
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6
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Fibromyalgia: Pathogenesis, Mechanisms, Diagnosis and Treatment Options Update. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22083891. [PMID: 33918736 PMCID: PMC8068842 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 64.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome characterized by chronic and widespread musculoskeletal pain, often accompanied by other symptoms, such as fatigue, intestinal disorders and alterations in sleep and mood. It is estimated that two to eight percent of the world population is affected by fibromyalgia. From a medical point of view, this pathology still presents inexplicable aspects. It is known that fibromyalgia is caused by a central sensitization phenomenon characterized by the dysfunction of neuro-circuits, which involves the perception, transmission and processing of afferent nociceptive stimuli, with the prevalent manifestation of pain at the level of the locomotor system. In recent years, the pathogenesis of fibromyalgia has also been linked to other factors, such as inflammatory, immune, endocrine, genetic and psychosocial factors. A rheumatologist typically makes a diagnosis of fibromyalgia when the patient describes a history of pain spreading in all quadrants of the body for at least three months and when pain is caused by digital pressure in at least 11 out of 18 allogenic points, called tender points. Fibromyalgia does not involve organic damage, and several diagnostic approaches have been developed in recent years, including the analysis of genetic, epigenetic and serological biomarkers. Symptoms often begin after physical or emotional trauma, but in many cases, there appears to be no obvious trigger. Women are more prone to developing the disease than men. Unfortunately, the conventional medical therapies that target this pathology produce limited benefits. They remain largely pharmacological in nature and tend to treat the symptomatic aspects of various disorders reported by the patient. The statistics, however, highlight the fact that 90% of people with fibromyalgia also turn to complementary medicine to manage their symptoms.
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7
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Bruehl S, Gamazon ER, Van de Ven T, Buchheit T, Walsh CG, Mishra P, Ramanujan K, Shaw A. DNA methylation profiles are associated with complex regional pain syndrome after traumatic injury. Pain 2019; 160:2328-2337. [PMID: 31145213 PMCID: PMC7473388 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000001624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Factors contributing to development of complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) are not fully understood. This study examined possible epigenetic mechanisms that may contribute to CRPS after traumatic injury. DNA methylation profiles were compared between individuals developing CRPS (n = 9) and those developing non-CRPS neuropathic pain (n = 38) after undergoing amputation following military trauma. Linear Models for Microarray (LIMMA) analyses revealed 48 differentially methylated cytosine-phosphate-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) sites between groups (unadjusted P's < 0.005), with the top gene COL11A1 meeting Bonferroni-adjusted P < 0.05. The second largest differential methylation was observed for the HLA-DRB6 gene, an immune-related gene linked previously to CRPS in a small gene expression study. For all but 7 of the significant CpG sites, the CRPS group was hypomethylated. Numerous functional Gene Ontology-Biological Process categories were significantly enriched (false discovery rate-adjusted q value <0.15), including multiple immune-related categories (eg, activation of immune response, immune system development, regulation of immune system processes, and antigen processing and presentation). Differentially methylated genes were more highly connected in human protein-protein networks than expected by chance (P < 0.05), supporting the biological relevance of the findings. Results were validated in an independent sample linking a DNA biobank with electronic health records (n = 126 CRPS phenotype, n = 19,768 non-CRPS chronic pain phenotype). Analyses using PrediXcan methodology indicated differences in the genetically determined component of gene expression in 7 of 48 genes identified in methylation analyses (P's < 0.02). Results suggest that immune- and inflammatory-related factors might confer risk of developing CRPS after traumatic injury. Validation findings demonstrate the potential of using electronic health records linked to DNA for genomic studies of CRPS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen Bruehl
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States. Mr. Shaw is now with Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Eric R. Gamazon
- Division of Genetic Medicine, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt Genetics Institute, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, Clare Hall, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Thomas Van de Ven
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Thomas Buchheit
- Department of Anesthesiology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Colin G. Walsh
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical Informatics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States
| | - Puneet Mishra
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States. Mr. Shaw is now with Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Krishnan Ramanujan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States. Mr. Shaw is now with Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
| | - Andrew Shaw
- Department of Anesthesiology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, United States. Mr. Shaw is now with Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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8
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D’Agnelli S, Arendt-Nielsen L, Gerra MC, Zatorri K, Boggiani L, Baciarello M, Bignami E. Fibromyalgia: Genetics and epigenetics insights may provide the basis for the development of diagnostic biomarkers. Mol Pain 2019; 15:1744806918819944. [PMID: 30486733 PMCID: PMC6322092 DOI: 10.1177/1744806918819944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 11/03/2018] [Accepted: 11/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia is a disease characterized by chronic widespread pain with additional symptoms, such as joint stiffness, fatigue, sleep disturbance, cognitive dysfunction, and depression. Currently, fibromyalgia diagnosis is based exclusively on a comprehensive clinical assessment, according to 2016 ACR criteria, but validated biological biomarkers associated with fibromyalgia have not yet been identified. Genome-wide association studies investigated genes potentially involved in fibromyalgia pathogenesis highlighting that genetic factors are possibly responsible for up to 50% of the disease susceptibility. Potential candidate genes found associated to fibromyalgia are SLC64A4, TRPV2, MYT1L, and NRXN3. Furthermore, a gene-environmental interaction has been proposed as triggering mechanism, through epigenetic alterations: In particular, fibromyalgia appears to be characterized by a hypomethylated DNA pattern, in genes implicated in stress response, DNA repair, autonomic system response, and subcortical neuronal abnormalities. Differences in the genome-wide expression profile of microRNAs were found among multiple tissues, indicating the involvement of distinct processes in fibromyalgia pathogenesis. Further studies should be dedicated to strength these preliminary findings, in larger multicenter cohorts, to identify reliable directions for biomarker research and clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simona D’Agnelli
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Maria C Gerra
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Denmark
| | - Katia Zatorri
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Boggiani
- Department of Chemistry, Life Sciences and Environmental Sustainability, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Marco Baciarello
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elena Bignami
- Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine Division, Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
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9
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A new hypothesis for the pathophysiology of complex regional pain syndrome. Med Hypotheses 2018; 119:41-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2018.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Revised: 07/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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10
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Ying M, Liu H, Zhang T, Jiang C, Gong Y, Wu B, Zou L, Yi Z, Rao S, Li G, Zhang C, Jia T, Zhao S, Yuan H, Shi L, Li L, Liang S, Liu S. Effect of artemisinin on neuropathic pain mediated by P2X 4 receptor in dorsal root ganglia. Neurochem Int 2017; 108:27-33. [PMID: 28192150 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuint.2017.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2016] [Revised: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain caused by nervous system damage and dysfunction. The pathogenesis of chronic pain is complicated, and there are no effective therapies for neuropathic pain. Studies show that the P2X4 receptor expressed in the satellite glial cells (SGCs) of dorsal root ganglia (DRG) is related to neuropathic pain. Artemisinin is a monomeric component extracted from traditional Chinese medicine and has a variety of important pharmacological effects and potential applications. This study observed the effect of artemisinin on neuropathic pain and delineated its possible mechanism. The chronic constriction injury (CCI) rat model was used in this study. The results demonstrated that artemisinin relieved pain behaviors in the CCI rats, inhibited the expression of P2X4 receptor in the DRG, and decreased the ATP-activated currents in HEK293 cells transfected with P2X4 plasmid. Dual-labeling immunofluorescence showed that the coexpression of P2X4 receptor and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) in the DRG of CCI rats was increased compared to control rats. After CCI rats were treated with artemisinin, the coexpression of P2X4 receptor and GFAP in the DRG was significantly decreased compared to the CCI group. This finding suggested that artemisinin could inhibit the nociceptive transmission mediated by P2X4 receptor in the DRG SGCs and thus relieve pain behaviors in the CCI rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mofeng Ying
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Hui Liu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Tengling Zhang
- Department of English Language Teaching, Nanchang Institute of Science and Technology, Nanchang, Jiangxi 330006, PR China
| | - Chenxu Jiang
- Class 131, Queen Marie College of Nanchang University, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330008, PR China
| | - Yingxin Gong
- Department of the First Clinical Medicine, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang, 330008, PR China
| | - Bing Wu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Lifang Zou
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Zhihua Yi
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Shenqiang Rao
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Guilin Li
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Chunping Zhang
- Department of Medical Genetics and Biology, Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Tianyu Jia
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Shanhong Zhao
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Huilong Yuan
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Liran Shi
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Lin Li
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China
| | - Shangdong Liang
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China.
| | - Shuangmei Liu
- Department of Physiology, Basic Medical College of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, PR China; Jiangxi Provincial Key Laboratory of Autonomic Nervous Function and Disease, Nanchang 330006, PR China.
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11
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Shao J, Cao J, Wang J, Ren X, Su S, Li M, Li Z, Zhao Q, Zang W. MicroRNA-30b regulates expression of the sodium channel Nav1.7 in nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain in the rat. Mol Pain 2016; 12:12/0/1744806916671523. [PMID: 27765894 PMCID: PMC5081156 DOI: 10.1177/1744806916671523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Voltage-gated sodium channels, which are involved in pain pathways, have emerged as major targets for therapeutic intervention in pain disorders. Nav1.7, the tetrodotoxin-sensitive voltage-gated sodium channel isoform encoded by SCN9A and predominantly expressed in pain-sensing neurons in the dorsal root ganglion, plays a crucial role in nociception. MicroRNAs are highly conserved, small non-coding RNAs. Through binding to the 3′ untranslated region of their target mRNAs, microRNAs induce the cleavage and/or inhibition of protein translation. Based on bioinformatics analysis using TargetScan software, we determined that miR-30b directly targets SCN9A. To investigate the roles of Nav1.7 and miR-30b in neuropathic pain, we examined changes in the expression of Nav1.7 in the dorsal root ganglion by miR-30b over-expression or knockdown in rats with spared nerve injury. Our results demonstrated that the expression of miR-30b and Nav1.7 was down-regulated and up-regulated, respectively, in the dorsal root ganglion of spared nerve injury rats. MiR-30b over-expression in spared nerve injury rats inhibited SCN9A transcription, resulting in pain relief. In addition, miR-30b knockdown significantly increased hypersensitivity to pain in naive rats. We also observed that miR-30b decreased Nav1.7 expression in PC12 cells. Taken together, our results suggest that miR-30b plays an important role in neuropathic pain by regulating Nav1.7 expression. Therefore, miR-30b may be a promising target for the treatment of chronic neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinping Shao
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Cao
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jiannan Wang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiuhua Ren
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Songxue Su
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Zhihua Li
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingzan Zhao
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Weidong Zang
- Department of Anatomy, Basic Medical College, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
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Drakeley M, Ho SG, Helm ER, Levin J, Rosenquist RW. Spinal Cord Stimulation for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). CURRENT PHYSICAL MEDICINE AND REHABILITATION REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40141-016-0113-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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13
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Stefano GB, Kream RM. Dysregulated mitochondrial and chloroplast bioenergetics from a translational medical perspective (Review). Int J Mol Med 2016; 37:547-55. [PMID: 26821064 PMCID: PMC4771107 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2016.2471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria and chloroplasts represent endosymbiotic models of complex organelle development, driven by intense evolutionary pressure to provide exponentially enhanced ATP-dependent energy production functionally linked to cellular respiration and photosynthesis. Within the realm of translational medicine, it has become compellingly evident that mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in compromised cellular bioenergetics, represents a key causative factor in the etiology and persistence of major diseases afflicting human populations. As a pathophysiological consequence of enhanced oxygen utilization that is functionally uncoupled from the oxidative phosphorylation of ADP, significant levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be generated within mitochondria and chloroplasts, which may effectively compromise cellular energy production following prolonged stress/inflammatory conditions. Empirically determined homologies in biochemical pathways, and their respective encoding gene sequences between chloroplasts and mitochondria, suggest common origins via entrapped primordial bacterial ancestors. From evolutionary and developmental perspectives, the elucidation of multiple biochemical and molecular relationships responsible for errorless bioenergetics within mitochondrial and plastid complexes will most certainly enhance the depth of translational approaches to ameliorate or even prevent the destructive effects of multiple disease states. The selective choice of discussion points contained within the present review is designed to provide theoretical bases and translational insights into the pathophysiology of human diseases from a perspective of dysregulated mitochondrial bioenergetics with special reference to chloroplast biology.
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Strong opioids for noncancer pain due to musculoskeletal diseases: Not more effective than acetaminophen or NSAIDs. Joint Bone Spine 2015; 82:397-401. [PMID: 26453108 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbspin.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The classification of morphine as a step III analgesic, based on pharmacological data, creates a strong bias toward a belief in the efficacy of this drug. However, double-blind emergency-room trials showed similar levels of pain relief with intravenous acetaminophen as with intravenous morphine in patients with renal colic, low back pain or acute limb pain. In patients with chronic noncancer low back pain, morphine and other strong opioids in dosages of up to 100mg/day were only slightly more effective than their placebos, no more effective than acetaminophen, and somewhat less effective than nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). In patients with osteoarthritis, strong opioids were not more effective than NSAIDs and, in some studies, than placebos. The only randomized controlled trial in patients with sciatica found no difference with the placebo. Chronic use of strong opioids can induce hyperalgesia in some patients. Hyperpathia with increased sensitivity to cold leading the patient to request higher dosages should suggest opioid-induced hyperalgesia. Pain specialists in the US have issued a petition asking that strong opioids be used in dosages no higher than 100mg/day of morphine-equivalent, in an effort to decrease the high rate of mortality due to the misuse and abuse of strong opioids (10,000 deaths/year in the US). Healthcare providers often overestimate the efficacy of step III analgesics, despite pain score decreases of only 0.8 to 1.2 points.
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Liang L, Lutz BM, Bekker A, Tao YX. Epigenetic regulation of chronic pain. Epigenomics 2015; 7:235-45. [PMID: 25942533 DOI: 10.2217/epi.14.75] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain arising from peripheral inflammation and tissue or nerve injury is a common clinical symptom. Although intensive research on the neurobiological mechanisms of chronic pain has been carried out during previous decades, this disorder is still poorly managed by current drugs such as opioids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Inflammation, tissue injury and/or nerve injury-induced changes in gene expression in sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglion, spinal cord dorsal horn and pain-associated brain regions are thought to participate in chronic pain genesis; however, how these changes occur is still elusive. Epigenetic modifications including DNA methylation and covalent histone modifications control gene expression. Recent studies have shown that peripheral noxious stimulation changes DNA methylation and histone modifications and that these changes may be related to the induction of pain hypersensitivity under chronic pain conditions. This review summarizes the current knowledge and progress in epigenetic research in chronic pain and discusses the potential role of epigenetic modifications as therapeutic antinociceptive targets in this disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingli Liang
- Department of Anesthesiology, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, 185 S. Orange Avenue, MSB F-548, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
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Stefano GB, Snyder C, Kream RM. Mitochondria, Chloroplasts in Animal and Plant Cells: Significance of Conformational Matching. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21:2073-8. [PMID: 26184462 PMCID: PMC4517925 DOI: 10.12659/msm.894758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Many commonalities between chloroplasts and mitochondria exist, thereby suggesting a common origin via a bacterial ancestor capable of enhanced ATP-dependent energy production functionally linked to cellular respiration and photosynthesis. Accordingly, the molecular evolution/retention of the catalytic Qo quinol oxidation site of cytochrome b complexes as the tetrapeptide PEWY sequence functionally underlies the common retention of a chemiosmotic proton gradient mechanism for ATP synthesis in cellular respiration and photosynthesis. Furthermore, the dual regulatory targeting of mitochondrial and chloroplast gene expression by mitochondrial transcription termination factor (MTERF) proteins to promote optimal energy production and oxygen consumption further advances these evolutionary contentions. As a functional consequence of enhanced oxygen utilization and production, significant levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) may be generated within mitochondria and chloroplasts, which may effectively compromise cellular energy production following prolonged stress/inflammationary conditions. Interestingly, both types of organelles have been identified in selected animal cells, most notably specialized digestive cells lining the gut of several species of Sacoglossan sea slugs. Termed kleptoplasty or kleptoplastic endosymbiosis, functional chloroplasts from algal food sources are internalized and stored within digestive cells to provide the host with dual energy sources derived from mitochondrial and photosynthetic processes. Recently, the observation of internalized algae within embryonic tissues of the spotted salamander strongly suggest that developmental processes within a vertebrate organism may require photosynthetic endosymbiosis as an internal regulator. The dual presence of mitochondria and functional chloroplasts within specialized animal cells indicates a high degree of biochemical identity, stereoselectivity, and conformational matching that are the likely keys to their functional presence and essential endosymbiotic activities for over 2.5 billion years.
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Snyder C, Stefano GB. Mitochondria and chloroplasts shared in animal and plant tissues: significance of communication. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21:1507-11. [PMID: 26005853 PMCID: PMC4455318 DOI: 10.12659/msm.894481] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria have long been recognized as the main source of energy production for the eukaryotic cell. Recent studies have found that the mitochondria have a variety of dynamic functions aside from the production of energy. It communicates bidirectionally with other organelles in order to modulate its energy balance efficiently, as well as maintain homeostasis, ultimately prolonging its own and the cell’s longevity. The mitochondria achieves this level of regulation via specific and common bidirectional chemical messengers, especially involving the endoplasmic/sarcoplasmic reticulum (ER/SR), deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTP’s), ATP and the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Its communication network is also involved in stress associated events. In this regard, the activation of the Bax family proteins and the release of cytochrome c occurs during cellular stress. The communication can also promote apoptosis of the cell. When mitochondrial abnormalities cannot be dealt with, there is an increased chance that major illnesses like type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s disease, and cancer may occur. Importantly, functioning chloroplasts can be found in animals, suggesting conserved chemical messengers during its evolutionary path. The dynamic capacity of mitochondria is also noted by their ability to function anaerobically. Indeed, this latter phenomenon may represent a return to an earlier developmental stage of mitochondria, suggesting certain disorders result from its untimely appearance.
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Stefano GB, Kream RM. Hypoxia defined as a common culprit/initiation factor in mitochondrial-mediated proinflammatory processes. Med Sci Monit 2015; 21:1478-84. [PMID: 25997954 PMCID: PMC4451716 DOI: 10.12659/msm.894437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
In mammals and invertebrates, the activities of neuro- and immuno-competent cells, e.g., glia, which are present in nervous tissues, are deemed of critical importance to normative neuronal function. The responsiveness of invertebrate and vertebrate immuno-competent glia to a common set of signal molecules, such as nitric oxide and endogenous morphine, is functionally linked to physiologically driven innate immunological and neuronal activities. Importantly, the presence of a common, evolutionarily conserved, set of signal molecules in comparative animal groups strongly suggests an expansive intermediate metabolic profile dependent on high output mitochondrial ATP production and utilization. Normative bidirectional neural-immune communication across invertebrate and vertebrate species requires common anatomical and biochemical substrates and pathways involved in energy production and mitochondrial integrity. Within this closed-loop system, abnormal perturbation of the respective tissue functions will have profound ramifications in functionally altering associated nervous and vascular systems and it is highly likely that the initial trigger to the induction of a physiologically debilitating pro-inflammatory state is a micro-environmental hypoxic event. This is surmised by the need for an unwavering constant oxygen supply. In this case, temporal perturbations of normative oxygen tension may be tolerated for short, but not extended, periods and ischemic/hypoxic perturbations in oxygen delivery represent significant physiological challenges to overall cellular and multiple organ system viability. Hence, hypoxic triggering of multiple pro-inflammatory events, if not corrected, will promote pathophysiological amplification leading to a deleterious cascade of bio-senescent cellular and molecular signaling pathways, which converge to markedly impair mitochondrial energy utilization and ATP production.
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Corradini C, Bosizio C, Moretti A. Algodystrophy (CRPS) in minor orthopedic surgery. CLINICAL CASES IN MINERAL AND BONE METABOLISM : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE ITALIAN SOCIETY OF OSTEOPOROSIS, MINERAL METABOLISM, AND SKELETAL DISEASES 2015; 12:21-5. [PMID: 27134628 PMCID: PMC4832412 DOI: 10.11138/ccmbm/2015.12.3s.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Algodystrophy or Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS) is a painful disorder that develops especially at upper or lower extremities of the limbs after a fracture. This syndrome is probably due to bone microvascular changes with subsequent sympathetic nervous system involvement. The pain that characterizes CRPS is spontaneous, disproportionate to the traumatic event and is associated with hyperalgesia, and a variety of autonomic and trophic disorders. This condition has a variable incidence up to 37% of the cases, increasing along with the severity of the fracture. CRPS has a higher chance of developing in women, in older individuals, in smokers, and in patients with reduced bone strength. Early diagnosis is associated with remission in 80-90% of cases. Since the typical onset of the disease is insidious over 2 weeks after surgery, a diagnostic and therapeutic delay may occur. These are the major causes of a high percentage of chronic and disabling complications leading to impaired functional outcomes. In the acute or subacute phase, infusion of bisphosphonates has proven to be the first-choice of treatment with a high percentage of remissions. Moreover, it has been suggested the utility of vitamin C in prevention of CRPS. Furthermore, in the chronic phase electroanalgesia seems to provide promising results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Costantino Corradini
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, Sports Trauma Researches Center, State University of Milan c/o 1st Division of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Orthopedic Center Pini CTO - ASST Gaetano Pini, Milan, Italy
- Address for correspondence: Costantino Corradini, MD, Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, Sports Trauma Researches Center, State University of Milan c/o 1st Division of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Orthopedic Center Pini CTO - ASST Gaetano Pini Milan, Italy, E-mail:
| | - Claudia Bosizio
- Department of Biomedical Surgical and Dental Sciences, Sports Trauma Researches Center, State University of Milan c/o 1st Division of Orthopedics and Traumatology, Orthopedic Center Pini CTO - ASST Gaetano Pini, Milan, Italy
| | - Antimo Moretti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Specialties and Dentistry, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
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