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López-Estévez S, Aguilera M, Gris G, de la Puente B, Carceller A, Martínez V. Genetic and Pharmacological Blockade of Sigma-1 Receptors Attenuates Inflammation-Associated Hypersensitivity during Acute Colitis in CD1 Mice. Biomedicines 2023; 11:2758. [PMID: 37893131 PMCID: PMC10604167 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11102758] [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: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Sigma-1 receptors (σ1Rs) are implicated in nociception, including pain sensitization, and inflammation. We assessed the role of σ1Rs on acute colitis-associated hypersensitivity using both genetic (constitutive knockout) and pharmacological blockade of the receptor. Colitis was induced in CD1 wild-type (WT) and σ1R KO mice (exposure to dextran sodium sulfate, 3%). A von Frey test was used to assess referred mechanosensitivity (abdominal and plantar withdrawal responses). The effects of the selective σ1R antagonists BD1063 and E-52862 were also assessed in WT animals. The expression of immune and sensory-related markers (RT-qPCR, Western blot) was assessed in the colon and lumbosacral spinal cord. The genetic ablation or pharmacological blockade of σ1Rs attenuated acute colonic inflammation in a similar manner. Mechanosensitivity was similar in WT and σ1R KO mice before colitis. In WT mice, but not in σ1R KO, colitis was associated with the development of referred mechanical hypersensitivity, manifested as a reduction in the withdrawal thresholds to mechanical probing (paw and abdominal wall). In WT mice, BD1063 and E-52862 blocked colitis-associated hypersensitivity. A genotype- and treatment-related differential regulation of sensory-related markers was detected locally (colon) and within the spinal cord. σ1Rs are involved in the development of acute intestinal inflammation and its associated referred mechanical hypersensitivity. The selective modulation of sensory-related pathways within the colon and spinal cord might be part of the underlying mechanisms. These observations support the pharmacological use of σ1R antagonists for the treatment of intestinal inflammation-induced hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio López-Estévez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.L.-E.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mònica Aguilera
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.L.-E.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgia Gris
- Department of Pharmacology, Welab Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.G.); (B.d.l.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Beatriz de la Puente
- Department of Pharmacology, Welab Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.G.); (B.d.l.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Alicia Carceller
- Department of Pharmacology, Welab Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona, Spain; (G.G.); (B.d.l.P.); (A.C.)
| | - Vicente Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; (S.L.-E.)
- Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 28049 Madrid, Spain
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Hornung RS, Raut NGR, Cantu DJ, Lockhart LM, Averitt DL. Sigma-1 receptors and progesterone metabolizing enzymes in nociceptive sensory neurons of the female rat trigeminal ganglia: A neural substrate for the antinociceptive actions of progesterone. Mol Pain 2022; 18:17448069211069255. [PMID: 35040378 PMCID: PMC8777333 DOI: 10.1177/17448069211069255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Orofacial pain disorders are predominately experienced by women. Progesterone, a major ovarian hormone, is neuroprotective and antinociceptive. We recently reported that progesterone attenuates estrogen-exacerbated orofacial pain behaviors, yet it remains unclear what anatomical substrate underlies progesterone's activity in the trigeminal system. Progesterone has been reported to exert protective effects through actions at intracellular progesterone receptors (iPR), membrane-progesterone receptors (mPR), or sigma 1 receptors (Sig-1R). Of these, the iPR and Sig-1R have been reported to have a role in pain. Progesterone can also have antinociceptive effects through its metabolite, allopregnanolone. Two enzymes, 5α-reductase and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3α-HSD), are required for the metabolism of progesterone to allopregnanolone. Both progesterone and allopregnanolone rapidly attenuate pain sensitivity, implicating action of either progesterone at Sig-1R and/or conversion to allopregnanolone which targets GABAA receptors. In the present study, we investigated whether Sig-1 Rs are expressed in nociceptors within the trigeminal ganglia of cycling female rats and whether the two enzymes required for progesterone metabolism to allopregnanolone, 5α-reductase and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, are also present. Adult female rats from each stage of the estrous cycle were rapidly decapitated and the trigeminal ganglia collected. Trigeminal ganglia were processed by either fluorescent immunochemistry or western blotting to for visualization and quantification of Sig-1R, 5α-reductase, and 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Here we report that Sig-1Rs and both enzymes involved in progesterone metabolism are highly expressed in a variety of nociceptive sensory neuron populations in the female rat trigeminal ganglia at similar levels across the four stages of the estrous cycle. These data indicate that trigeminal sensory neurons are an anatomical substrate for the reported antinociceptive activity of progesterone via Sig-1R and/or conversion to allopregnanolone.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Daisy J Cantu
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman’s
University, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Lauren M Lockhart
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman’s
University, Denton, TX, USA
| | - Dayna L Averitt
- Division of Biology, School of the Sciences, Texas Woman’s
University, Denton, TX, USA
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López-Estévez S, Gris G, de la Puente B, Carceller A, Martínez V. Intestinal inflammation-associated hypersensitivity is attenuated in a DSS model of colitis in Sigma-1 knockout C57BL/6 mice. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 143:112126. [PMID: 34474349 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.112126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Sigma-1 receptors (σ1R) have been implicated in several pain pathways. We assessed the implication of σ1Rs in the development of intestinal inflammation and inflammation-associated referred hypersensitivity in a model of colitis in σ1R knockout (KO) mice. Colitis was induced with dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) in wild type (WT) and σ1R KO mice. The development of referred mechanical hypersensitivity (von Frey test) was assessed. Colonic and spinal changes in expression of immune- and sensory-related markers were also investigated (RT-qPCR/Western blot). Absence of σ1Rs had little impact in colitis generation and progression, although during the chronic phase a reduction in edema and a down-regulation of iNOS gene expression was observed. In σ1R KO mice, inflammation-associated hypersensitivity was significantly attenuated (paw) or completely prevented (abdomen). During colitis, in WT mice, changes in the colonic expression of nociceptive markers were observed during the acute and chronic phases of inflammation. Although σ1R KO mice showed similar regulation in the acute phase, an attenuated response was observed during the chronic phase of colitis. These differences were especially relevant for CB2 and TRPV1 receptors, which could play an important role in σ1-mediated regulation of sensitivity. No changes were detected on ERK phosphorylation at the level of the lumbosacral spinal cord. In summary, intestinal inflammation-associated referred hyperalgesia was reduced (paw) or absent (abdomen) in σ1R KO mice, thus confirming an important role for σ1R in the development of colitis-associated hypersensitivity. These results identify σ1Rs as a possible therapeutic target for the treatment of hypersensitivity associated to intestinal inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio López-Estévez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Georgia Gris
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug Discovery & Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Beatriz de la Puente
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug Discovery & Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alicia Carceller
- Department of Pharmacology, Drug Discovery & Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Vicente Martínez
- Department of Cell Biology, Physiology and Immunology, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Neuroscience Institute, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193 Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Enfermedades Hepáticas y Digestivas (CIBERehd), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Chun S, Lee JH, Yoon SY, Kwon YB. The Peripheral Role of CCL2 in the Anti-Nociceptive Effect of Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonist BD1047 on Inflammatory Hyperalgesia in Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11730. [PMID: 34769165 PMCID: PMC8583891 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222111730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Our recent study demonstrated that the CC-chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) present in primary afferent fibers (PAFs) plays an important role in the microglia-dependent neuronal activation associated with zymosan-induced inflammatory pain. The present study was aimed to evaluate whether BD1047 (a prototypical sigma-1 receptor (Sig-1R) antagonist) is capable of modifying elevated levels of inflammation-evoked CCL2 as a peripheral antinociceptive mechanism. In DRG primary culture, zymosan dose-dependently increased CCL2 release from isolectin B4 (IB4)-positive DRG neurons, a process that was inhibited by co-culture with BD1047. Single treatment of BD1047 before intraplantar injection of zymosan in rats significantly reduced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical hyperalgesia, as well as CCL2 expression in DRG neurons and microglia activation in the spinal dorsal horn. In the Complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)-induced inflammation model, repeated administration of BD1047 dramatically attenuated thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical hyperalgesia, and significantly diminished CCL2 immunoreactivity and microglia activation. Notably, CFA-induced inflammation significantly increased Sig-1R immunoreactivity in DRG neurons, which was co-localized with CCL2 and IB4, respectively. Taken together, our results suggest that BD1047's anti-nociceptive property was substantially mediated by the inhibition of CCL2 release in unmyelinated PAFs and that this may, in turn, have attenuated the spinal microglia activation that is associated with inflammatory pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sungkun Chun
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju 54907, Korea;
| | - Jun-Ho Lee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Jeonbuk National University Medical School and Hospital, Jeonju 54907, Korea;
| | - Seo-Yeon Yoon
- Department of Pet Animal, Division of Health and Life Science, Daejeon Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon 35408, Korea;
| | - Young-Bae Kwon
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute for Medical Science, Jeonbuk National University Medical School, Jeonju 54907, Korea
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Quadir SG, Tanino SM, Sami YN, Minnig MA, Iyer MR, Rice KC, Cottone P, Sabino V. Antagonism of Sigma-1 receptor blocks heavy alcohol drinking and associated hyperalgesia in male mice. Alcohol Clin Exp Res 2021; 45:1398-1407. [PMID: 34060104 PMCID: PMC8295198 DOI: 10.1111/acer.14635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a complex psychiatric disease characterized by high alcohol intake as well as hyperkatifeia and hyperalgesia during withdrawal. A role for Sigma-1 receptors (Sig-1Rs) in the rewarding and reinforcing effects of alcohol has started to emerge in recent years, as rat studies have indicated that Sig-1R hyperactivity may result in excessive alcohol drinking. Sig-1R studies in mice are very scarce, and its potential role in alcohol-induced hyperalgesia is also unknown. METHODS In this study, we investigated the role of Sig-1R in alcohol drinking and associated hyperalgesia in male mice, using an intermittent access 2-bottle choice model of heavy drinking. RESULTS The Sig-1R antagonist BD-1063 was found dose dependently to reduce both alcohol intake and preference, without affecting either water or sucrose intake, suggesting that the effects are specific for alcohol. Notably, the ability of BD-1063 to suppress ethanol intake correlated with the individual baseline levels of alcohol drinking, suggesting that the treatment was more efficacious in heavy drinking animals. In addition, BD-1063 reversed alcohol-induced hyperalgesia during withdrawal, assessed using an automatic Hargreaves test, without affecting thermal sensitivity in alcohol-naïve animals or locomotor activity in either group. CONCLUSIONS These data show that Sig-1R antagonism dose-dependently reduced ethanol consumption in heavy drinking mice as well as its efficacy in reducing alcohol-induced hyperalgesia. These findings provide a foundation for the development of novel treatments for AUD and associated pain states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sema G. Quadir
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sean M. Tanino
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Yasmine N. Sami
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Margaret A. Minnig
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Malliga R. Iyer
- Section on Medicinal Chemistry, National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Kenner C. Rice
- Drug Design and Synthesis, National Institute on Drug Abuse and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Pietro Cottone
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St., Boston, MA, USA
| | - Valentina Sabino
- Laboratory of Addictive Disorders, Departments of Pharmacology and Psychiatry, Boston University School of Medicine, 72 E. Concord St., Boston, MA, USA
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Déciga-Campos M, Melo-Hernández LA, Torres-Gómez H, Wünsch B, Schepmann D, González-Trujano ME, Espinosa-Juárez J, López-Muñoz FJ, Navarrete-Vázquez G. Design and synthesis of N‑(benzylpiperidinyl)‑4‑fluorobenzamide: A haloperidol analog that reduces neuropathic nociception via σ 1 receptor antagonism. Life Sci 2020; 245:117348. [PMID: 31981633 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.117348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 01/15/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Haloperidol is a neuroleptic drug with high affinity towards the σ1 receptor (σ1R), acting as antagonist that decreases neuropathic pain, but has CNS side effects. This work describes the design and synthesis of a novel analog N‑(1‑benzylpiperidin‑4-yl)‑4‑fluorobenzamide (LMH-2), which produced antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects in rats with neuropathy induced by chronic constriction injury of the sciatic nerve (CCI), being more active than gabapentin (The most widely used drug for the treatment of neuropathic pain). MAIN METHODS LMH-2 was designed as haloperidol analog. Its structure was characterized by spectroscopic (1H and 13C NMR) and spectrometric mass (electronic impact) techniques. Additionally, in silico predictions of pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic and toxicological properties were obtained, with promising results. A competitive binding assay using radioligands was employed to evaluate the in vitro affinity for σ1R, whereas in vivo antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic activities were investigated using Wistar rats with CCI. KEY FINDINGS LMH-2 showed high affinity for σ1R in an in vitro binding assay, with a Ki = 6.0 nM and a high σ1R/σ2R selectivity ratio. Molecular docking studies were carried out to determine the binding energy and to analyze LMH-2-protein interactions. Through an in silico pharmacological consensus analysis, LMH-2 was considered safe for in vivo evaluation. Thus, LMH-2 had dose-dependent antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic activities; its efficacy was comparable to that of gabapentin, but its potency was 2-times higher than this drug. SIGNIFICANCE LMH-2 administration produced antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic effects by the antagonism of σ1R, suggesting its potential use as an analgesic drug for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrna Déciga-Campos
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación, Escuela Superior de Medicina, Instituto Politécnico Nacional, Plan de San Luis y Díaz Mirón s/n Col. Casco de Santo Tomás, 11340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - Luis Alberto Melo-Hernández
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001, Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62209, Mexico
| | - Héctor Torres-Gómez
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Bernhard Wünsch
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - Dirk Schepmann
- Institut für Pharmazeutische und Medizinische Chemie, Westfälischen Wilhelms-Universität Münster, D-48149 Münster, Germany
| | - María Eva González-Trujano
- Laboratorio de Neurofarmacología de Productos Naturales, Dirección de Investigaciones en Neurociencias, Instituto Nacional de Psiquiatría "Ramón de la Fuente Muñíz", 14370 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Josué Espinosa-Juárez
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Francisco Javier López-Muñoz
- Departamento de Farmacobiología, Centro de Investigación y de Estudios Avanzados (Cinvestav), Sede Sur, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Gabriel Navarrete-Vázquez
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001, Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62209, Mexico.
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7
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Wang Y, Jiang HF, Ni J, Guo L. Pharmacological stimulation of sigma-1 receptor promotes activation of astrocyte via ERK1/2 and GSK3β signaling pathway. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2019; 392:801-812. [PMID: 30798370 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-019-01632-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Astrocyte is considered to be a type of passive supportive cells that preserves neuronal activity and survival. The dysfunction of astrocytes is involved in the pathological processes of major depression. Recent studies implicate sigma-1 receptors as putative therapeutic targets for current available antidepressant drugs. However, it is absent of direct evidences whether sigma-1 receptor could promote activation of astrocyte. In the present study, we took advantage of primary astrocyte culture and a highly selective agonist of sigma-1 receptor, (+)SKF-10047 to determine the effect of sigma-1 receptor on Brdu (bromodeoxyuridine) labeling positive cells, migration as well as GFAP (glial fibrillary acidic protein) expression of astrocyte. The results showed that (+)SKF-10047 notably increased the number of Brdu labeling positive cells, migration, and the expression of GFAP in primary astrocytes, which were blocked by antagonist of sigma-1 receptor. Moreover, we also found that (+)SKF-10047 increased the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 (extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1/2) and GSK3β (glycogen synthase kinase 3β) (ser 9) in the primary astrocytes. In addition, pharmacological inhibition of ERK1/2 and GSK3β (ser 9) abolished sigma-1 receptor-promoted activation of astrocyte. Therefore, sigma-1 receptor could be considerate as a new pattern for modulating astrocytic function might emerge as therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yun Wang
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hua-Feng Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, Huzhou Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital, Zhejiang, China
| | - Jing Ni
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lin Guo
- Jiangsu Key Laboratory of New Drug Research and Clinical Pharmacy, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
- Department of Pharmacology, The Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, Jiangsu, China.
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Castany S, Codony X, Zamanillo D, Merlos M, Verdú E, Boadas-Vaello P. Repeated Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonist MR309 Administration Modulates Central Neuropathic Pain Development After Spinal Cord Injury in Mice. Front Pharmacol 2019; 10:222. [PMID: 30967775 PMCID: PMC6439356 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2019.00222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Up to two-thirds of patients affected by spinal cord injury (SCI) develop central neuropathic pain (CNP), which has a high impact on their quality of life. Most of the patients are largely refractory to current treatments, and new pharmacological strategies are needed. Recently, it has been shown that the acute administration of the σ1R antagonist MR309 (previously developed as E-52862) at 28 days after spinal cord contusion results in a dose-dependent suppression of both mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia in wild-type CD-1 Swiss female mice. The present work was addressed to determine whether MR309 might exert preventive effects on CNP development by repeated administration during the first week after SCI in mice. To this end, the MR309 (16 or 32 mg/kg i.p.) modulation on both thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia development were evaluated weekly up to 28 days post-injury. In addition, changes in pro-inflammatory cytokine (TNF-α, IL-1β) expression and both the expression and activation (phosphorylation) of the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor subunit 2B (NR2B-NMDA) and extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK1/2) were analyzed. The repeated treatment of SCI-mice with MR309 resulted in significant pain behavior attenuation beyond the end of the administration period, accompanied by reduced expression of central sensitization-related mechanistic correlates, including extracellular mediators (TNF-α and IL-1β), membrane receptors/channels (NR2B-NMDA) and intracellular signaling cascades (ERK/pERK). These findings suggest that repeated MR309 treatment after SCI may be a suitable pharmacologic strategy to modulate SCI-induced CNP development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sílvia Castany
- Research Group of Clinical Anatomy, Embryology and Neuroscience (NEOMA), Department of Medical Sciences, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Xavier Codony
- Esteve Pharmaceuticals, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Zamanillo
- Esteve Pharmaceuticals, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Merlos
- Esteve Pharmaceuticals, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enrique Verdú
- Research Group of Clinical Anatomy, Embryology and Neuroscience (NEOMA), Department of Medical Sciences, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Pere Boadas-Vaello
- Research Group of Clinical Anatomy, Embryology and Neuroscience (NEOMA), Department of Medical Sciences, Universitat de Girona, Girona, Spain
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Espinosa-Juárez JV, Jaramillo-Morales OA, López-Muñoz FJ. Haloperidol Decreases Hyperalgesia and Allodynia Induced by Chronic Constriction Injury. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2017; 121:471-479. [PMID: 28654186 DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Neuropathic pain has proven to be a difficult condition to treat, so investigational therapy has been sought that may prove useful, such as the use of sigma-1 antagonists. Haloperidol (HAL) is a compound that shows a high affinity with these receptors, acting as an antagonist. Therefore, the objective of this study was to demonstrate its effect in an experimental model of neuropathic pain and corroborate its antagonistic action of the sigma-1 receptors under these conditions. BD-1063 was used as a sigma-1 antagonist control, and gabapentin (Gbp) was used as a positive control. The antihyperalgesic and anti-allodynic effects of the drugs were determined after single-dose trials. In every case, the effects increased in a dose-dependent manner. HAL had the same efficacy as both BD-1063 and Gbp. In the analysis of pharmacological potency, in which the ED50 were compared, HAL was the most potent drug of all. The effect of HAL on chronic constriction injury (CCI) rats was reversed by the sigma-1 agonist (PRE-084). HAL reversed the hyperalgesic and allodynic effects of PRE-084 in naïve rats. The dopamine antagonist, (-)-sulpiride, showed no effect in CCl rats. These results suggest that HAL presents an antinociceptive effect via sigma-1 receptor antagonism at the spinal level in the CCl model.
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10
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Espinosa-Juárez JV, Jaramillo-Morales OA, Navarrete-Vázquez G, Melo-Hernández LA, Déciga-Campos M, López-Muñoz FJ. N-(2-morpholin-4-yl-ethyl)-2-(1naphthyloxy)acetamide inhibits the chronic constriction injury-generated hyperalgesia via the antagonism of sigma-1 receptors. Eur J Pharmacol 2017; 812:1-8. [PMID: 28648406 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2017.06.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The most used therapeutic treatment to relieve neuropathic pain is that of neuromodulators such as anti-epileptics or anti-depressants; however, there are alternatives that may be potentially useful. The sigma-1 receptor is a therapeutic target that has shown favorable results at preclinical levels. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-hyperalgesic effect of N-(2-morpholin-4-yl-ethyl)-2-(1-naphthyloxy) acetamide (NMIN) in a chronic constriction injury model (CCI) and compare it both a sigma-1 antagonist (BD-1063) and also Gabapentin, as well as determine its possible role as an antagonist of sigma-1 receptors. The anti-hyperalgesic effects of Gabapentin (10.0, 17.8, 31.6, 56.2 and 100mg/kg, s.c.), BD-1063 (5.6, 10.0, 17.8, 31.6 and 56.2mg/kg, s.c.) and NMIN (31.6, 10.0, 316mg/kg and 562mg/kg, s.c.) were determined after single-doses, using the von Frey test in the CCI model. NMIN had the same efficacy as BD-1063, but both show less efficacy than Gabapentin. In an analysis of pharmacological potency, the ED50 were compared with it being found that BD-1063 is the most potent drug, followed by Gabapentin and NMIN. The anti-hyperalgesic effect of NMIN on CCI rats was reversed by (+)-pentazocine (s.c. route) and by PRE-084 (i.t. route), both sigma-1 agonists. Furthermore, NMIN reversed the hyperalgesic effect of PRE-084 in naïve rats. These results suggest that NMIN has an anti-hyperalgesic effect on the CCI model, and that one of its mechanisms of action is as a sigma-1 antagonist, being a significant role the blocking of these receptors at the spinal level.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Gabriel Navarrete-Vázquez
- Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62209, Mexico.
| | | | - Myrna Déciga-Campos
- Sección de Estudios de Posgrado e Investigación de la Escuela Superior de Medicina, IPN, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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Noxious, but not innocuous, thermal stimuli evoke pERK expression in dorsal horn neurons after spared nerve injury in adult rats. Neurosci Lett 2017. [PMID: 28636927 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2017.06.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Noxious stimulation of sensory afferents evokes phosphorylated extracellular signal regulated kinase (pERK) expression in spinal cord neurons. This study investigated the expression of pERK in the dorsal horn neurons in response to innocuous and noxious cold stimuli in naïve versus spared nerve injury (SNI) rats. Noxious cold or hot stimuli (0 or 45°C) elicited pERK expression in laminae I-II whereas cooling stimuli from 32°C to 25, 15 or 5°C produced no or little pERK expression in dorsal horn neurons. Five days after SNI, a time when these animals showed heat hyperalgesia, cold and mechanical hypersensitivity, only noxious heat stimuli produced a significant increase in pERK expression compared to naïve rats in spinal cord neurons. Thus, pERK cannot be used as an activity marker for neurons responding to cooling stimuli or cold allodynia; however, these results confirm the role of pERK as an activity marker for heat hyperalgesia.
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12
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Merlos M, Burgueño J, Portillo-Salido E, Plata-Salamán CR, Vela JM. Pharmacological Modulation of the Sigma 1 Receptor and the Treatment of Pain. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 964:85-107. [PMID: 28315267 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-50174-1_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
There is a critical need for new analgesics acting through new mechanisms of action, which could increase the efficacy with respect to existing therapies and reduce their unwanted effects. Current preclinical evidence supports the modulatory role of sigma-1 receptors (σ1R) in nociception, mainly based on the pain-attenuated phenotype of σ1R knockout mice and on the antinociceptive effect exerted by σ1R antagonists on pains of different etiologies. σ1R is highly expressed in different pain areas of the CNS and the periphery (particularly dorsal root ganglia), and interacts and modulates the functionality of different receptors and ion channels . The antagonism of σ1R leads to decreased amplification of pain signaling within the spinal cord (central sensitization), but recent data also support a role at the periphery. σ1R antagonists have consistently demonstrated efficacy in neuropathic pain , but also in other types of pain including inflammatory, orofacial, visceral, and post-operative pain. Apart from acting alone, when combined with opioids, σ1R antagonists enhance opioid analgesia but not opioid-induced unwanted effects. Interestingly, unlike opioids, σ1R antagonists do not modify normal sensory mechanical and thermal sensitivity thresholds but they exert antihypersensitive effects in sensitizing conditions, enabling the reversal of nociceptive thresholds back to normal values. Accordingly, σ1R antagonists are not strictly analgesics; they are antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic drugs acting when the system is sensitized following prolonged noxious stimulation or persistent abnormal afferent input (e.g., secondary to nerve injury). These are distinctive features allowing σ1R antagonists to exert a modulatory effect specifically in pathophysiological conditions such as chronic pain .
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Merlos
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Javier Burgueño
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enrique Portillo-Salido
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carlos Ramón Plata-Salamán
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Miguel Vela
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE. Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
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Abstract
There is a critical need for new analgesics acting through new mechanisms of action, which could increase the efficacy respect to existing therapies and/or reduce their unwanted effects. Current preclinical evidence supports the modulatory role of the sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) in nociception, mainly based on the pain-attenuated phenotype of σ1R knockout mice and on the antinociceptive effect exerted by σ1R antagonists on pain of different etiology, very consistently in neuropathic pain, but also in nociceptive, inflammatory, and visceral pain. σ1R is highly expressed in different pain areas of the CNS and the periphery, particularly dorsal root ganglia (DRG), and interacts and modulates the functionality of different receptors and ion channels. Accordingly, antinociceptive effects of σ1R antagonists both acting alone and in combination with other analgesics have been reported at both central and peripheral sites. At the central level, behavioral, electrophysiological, neurochemical, and molecular findings support a role for σ1R antagonists in inhibiting augmented excitability secondary to sustained afferent input. Moreover, the involvement of σ1R in mechanisms regulating pain at the periphery has been recently confirmed. Unlike opioids, σ1R antagonists do not modify normal sensory mechanical and thermal sensitivity thresholds but they exert antihypersensitivity effects (antihyperalgesic and antiallodynic) in sensitizing conditions, enabling the reversal of nociceptive thresholds back to normal values. These are distinctive features allowing σ1R antagonists to exert a modulatory effect specifically in pathophysiological conditions such as chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Merlos
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Luz Romero
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Daniel Zamanillo
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - José Miguel Vela
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Barcelona, Spain.
- Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, 08028, Barcelona, Spain.
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Choi SR, Roh DH, Yoon SY, Kwon SG, Choi HS, Han HJ, Beitz AJ, Lee JH. Astrocyte sigma-1 receptors modulate connexin 43 expression leading to the induction of below-level mechanical allodynia in spinal cord injured mice. Neuropharmacology 2016; 111:34-46. [PMID: 27567941 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuropharm.2016.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/23/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
We have previously shown using a spinal cord injury (SCI) model that gap junctions contribute to the early spread of astrocyte activation in the lumbar spinal cord and that this astrocyte communication plays critical role in the induction of central neuropathic pain. Sigma-1 receptors (Sig-1Rs) have been implicated in spinal astrocyte activation and the development of peripheral neuropathic pain, yet their contribution to central neuropathic pain remains unknown. Thus, we investigated whether SCI upregulates spinal Sig-1Rs, which in turn increase the expression of the astrocytic gap junction protein, connexin 43 (Cx43) leading to the induction of central neuropathic pain. A thoracic spinal cord hemisection significantly increased both astrocyte activation and Cx43 expression in lumbar dorsal horn. Sig-1Rs were also increased in lumbar dorsal horn astrocytes, but not neurons or microglia. Intrathecal injection of an astrocyte metabolic inhibitor (fluorocitrate); a gap junction/hemichannel blocker (carbenoxolone); or a Cx43 mimetic peptide (43Gap26) significantly reduced SCI-induced bilateral below-level mechanical allodynia. Blockade of Sig-1Rs with BD1047 during the induction phase of pain significantly suppressed the SCI-induced development of mechanical allodynia, astrocyte activation, increased expression of Cx43 in both total and membrane levels, and increased association of Cx43 with Sig-1R. However, SCI did not change the expression of oligodendrocyte (Cx32) or neuronal (Cx36) gap junction proteins. These findings demonstrate that SCI activates astrocyte Sig-1Rs leading to increases in the expression of the gap junction protein, Cx43 and astrocyte activation in the lumbar dorsal horn, and ultimately contribute to the induction of bilateral below-level mechanical allodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheu-Ran Choi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Roh
- Department of Maxillofacial Tissue Regeneration and Research Center for Tooth and Periodontal Tissue Regeneration, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul 02447, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Yeon Yoon
- Pain Cognitive Function Research Center, Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Soon-Gu Kwon
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon-Seong Choi
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Ho-Jae Han
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Alvin J Beitz
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul, MN 55108, USA
| | - Jang-Hern Lee
- Department of Veterinary Physiology, BK21 PLUS Program for Creative Veterinary Science Research, Research Institute for Veterinary Science and College of Veterinary Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea.
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15
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Romero L, Merlos M, Vela JM. Antinociception by Sigma-1 Receptor Antagonists: Central and Peripheral Effects. ADVANCES IN PHARMACOLOGY (SAN DIEGO, CALIF.) 2016; 75:179-215. [PMID: 26920013 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apha.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
There is plenty of evidence supporting the modulatory role of sigma-1 receptors (σ1Rs) in nociception, mainly based on the pain-attenuated phenotype of σ1R knockout mice and on the antinociceptive effect exerted by σ1R antagonists, particularly in nonacute sensitizing conditions involving sustained afferent drive, activity-dependent plasticity/sensitization, and ultimately pain hypersensitivity, as it is the case in chronic pains of different etiology. Antinociceptive effects of σ1R antagonists both when acting alone and in combination with opioids (to enhance opioid analgesia) have been reported at both central and peripheral sites. At the central level, findings at the behavioral (animal pain models), electrophysiological (spinal wind-up recordings), neurochemical (spinal release of neurotransmitters) and molecular (NMDAR function) level supports a role for σ1R antagonists in inhibiting augmented excitability secondary to sustained afferent input. Attenuation of activity-induced plastic changes (central sensitization) following tissue injury/inflammation or nerve damage could thus underlie the central inhibitory effect of σ1R antagonists. Moreover, recent pieces of information confirm the involvement of σ1R in mechanisms regulating pain at the periphery, where σ1Rs are highly expressed, particularly in dorsal root ganglia. Indeed, local peripheral administration of σ1R antagonists reduces inflammatory hyperalgesia. Potentiation of opioid analgesia is also supported, particularly at supraspinal sites and at the periphery, where locally administered σ1R antagonists unmask opioid analgesia. Altogether, whereas σ1R activation is coupled to pain facilitation and inhibition of opioid antinociception, σ1R antagonism inhibits pain hypersensitivity and "releases the brake" enabling opioids to exert enhanced antinociceptive effects, both at the central nervous system and at the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luz Romero
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Manuel Merlos
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Miguel Vela
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Baldiri Reixac 4-8, Barcelona, Spain.
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The spinal antinociceptive mechanism determined by systemic administration of BD1047 in zymosan-induced hyperalgesia in rats. Brain Res Bull 2015; 119:93-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainresbull.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Revised: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 07/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Borges G, Berrocoso E, Mico JA, Neto F. ERK1/2: Function, signaling and implication in pain and pain-related anxio-depressive disorders. Prog Neuropsychopharmacol Biol Psychiatry 2015; 60:77-92. [PMID: 25708652 DOI: 10.1016/j.pnpbp.2015.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2014] [Revised: 01/31/2015] [Accepted: 02/15/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Despite the increasing knowledge regarding pain modulation, the understanding of the mechanisms behind a complex and pathologic chronic pain condition is still insufficient. These knowledge gaps might result in ineffective therapeutic approaches to relieve painful sensations. As a result, severe untreated chronic pain frequently triggers the onset of new disorders such as depression and/or anxiety, and therefore, both the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from chronic pain become seriously compromised, prompting a self-perpetuating cycle of symptomatology. The extracellular signal-regulated kinases 1 and 2 (ERK1/2) are molecules strongly implicated in the somatic component of pain at the spinal cord level and have been emerging as mediators of the emotional-affective component as well. Although these molecules might represent good biomarkers, their use as pharmacological targets is still open to discussion as paradoxical information has been obtained. Here we review the current scientific literature regarding ERK1/2 signaling in the modulation of pain, depression and anxiety, including the emotional-affective spheres of the pain experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Borges
- Neuropsycopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience (Pharmacology and Psychiatry), University of Cádiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain; Departamento de Biologia Experimental, Centro de Investigação Médica da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (CIM-FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Grupo de Morfofisiologia do Sistema Nervoso, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Porto, Portugal
| | - Esther Berrocoso
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain; Neuropsychopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Psychobiology Area, Department of Psychology, University of Cádiz, 11510 Cádiz, Spain
| | - Juan Antonio Mico
- Neuropsycopharmacology and Psychobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience (Pharmacology and Psychiatry), University of Cádiz, 11003 Cádiz, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Salud Mental (CIBERSAM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fani Neto
- Departamento de Biologia Experimental, Centro de Investigação Médica da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade do Porto (CIM-FMUP), 4200-319 Porto, Portugal; Grupo de Morfofisiologia do Sistema Nervoso, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular (IBMC), Porto, Portugal.
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuropathic pain is difficult to relieve with standard analgesics and tends to be resistant to opioid therapy. Sigma-1 receptors activated during neuropathic injury may sustain pain. Neuropathic injury activates sigma-1 receptors, which results in activation of various kinases, modulates the activity of multiple ion channels, ligand activated ion channels and voltage-gated ion channels; alters monoamine neurotransmission and dampens opioid receptors G-protein activation. Activation of sigma-1 receptors tonically inhibits opioid receptor G-protein activation and thus dampens analgesic responses. Therefore, sigma-1 receptor antagonists are potential analgesics for neuropathic and adjuvants to opioid therapy. AREAS COVERED This article reviews the importance of sigma-1 receptors as pain generators in multiple animal models in order to illustrate both the importance of these unique receptors in pathologic pain and the potential benefits to sigma-1 receptor antagonists as analgesics. EXPERT OPINION Sigma-1 receptor antagonists have a great potential as analgesics for acute neuropathic injury (herpes zoster, acute postoperative pain and chemotherapy induced neuropathy) and may, as an additional benefit, prevent the development of chronic neuropathic pain. Antagonists are potentially effective as adjuvants to opioid therapy when used early to prevent analgesic tolerance. Drug development is complicated by the complexity of sigma-1 receptor pharmacodynamics and its multiple targets, the lack of a specific sigma-1 receptor antagonist, and potential side effects due to on-target toxicities (cognitive impairment, depression).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mellar P Davis
- Case Western Reserve University, Taussig Cancer Institute, Cleveland Clinic Lerner School of Medicine, Palliative Medicine and Supportive Oncology Services, Division of Solid Tumor, The Cleveland Clinic , 9500 Euclid Ave, Cleveland, OH 44195 , USA
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19
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Vela JM, Merlos M, Almansa C. Investigational sigma-1 receptor antagonists for the treatment of pain. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2015; 24:883-96. [PMID: 26037209 DOI: 10.1517/13543784.2015.1048334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) is a ligand-regulated molecular chaperone that interacts with other proteins, including NMDA and opioid receptors, to modulate their activity. Convergent evidence indicates that σ1R antagonists exert inhibitory effects (and agonists stimulatory effects) on pain by stepping down the intracellular signaling cascades involved in transduction of noxious stimuli and plastic changes (i.e., sensitization phenomena) associated with chronic pain states. AREAS COVERED This review addresses three primary domains. The first focuses on mechanisms underlying the antinociceptive effects of σ1R antagonists. The second addresses evidence gained using pharmacological tools and experimental drugs in the discovery phase and clinical development. Finally, the article outlines the potential benefits of σ1R antagonists, alone or in combination, in the context of available pain therapeutics. EXPERT OPINION There is a critical need for new analgesics based on new mechanisms of action. Target identification requires convincing evidence relating targets to function. In turn, target validation requires confirmation of therapeutic benefits, ideally in humans. Current preclinical evidence provides strong rationale for σ1R antagonists in pain. The outcome of clinical studies with the most advanced investigational σ1R antagonist, S1RA (E-52862), will be of great interest to ascertain the potential of this new therapeutic approach to pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Miguel Vela
- ESTEVE, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, Carrer Baldiri Reixac , 4-8. Parc Científic de Barcelona, 08028 Barcelona , Spain +34 93 4466244 ; +34 93 4466432 ;
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20
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Guan XH, Fu QC, Shi D, Bu HL, Song ZP, Xiong BR, Shu B, Xiang HB, Xu B, Manyande A, Cao F, Tian YK. Activation of spinal chemokine receptor CXCR3 mediates bone cancer pain through an Akt-ERK crosstalk pathway in rats. Exp Neurol 2015; 263:39-49. [DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2014] [Revised: 08/30/2014] [Accepted: 09/12/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
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Almansa C, Vela JM. Selective sigma-1 receptor antagonists for the treatment of pain. Future Med Chem 2014; 6:1179-99. [PMID: 25078137 DOI: 10.4155/fmc.14.54] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2023] Open
Abstract
The sigma-1 receptor (σ1R) is located in areas of the CNS key for pain control and belongs to a unique target class with chaperoning functions over different molecular targets involved in transmission and amplification of nociceptive messages. Preclinical evidence supports a role for σ1R antagonists in the treatment of pain states where hypersensitivity develops as hyperalgesia and allodynia, two common symptoms encountered in neuropathic and other chronic pain conditions. Additionally, σ1R antagonists increase opioid analgesia without increasing opioid-related unwanted effects, which point to their potential use as opioid adjuvant therapy. This review summarizes the structure and function of the σ1R as well as the medicinal chemistry and pharmacological studies directed to the identification of σ1R antagonists for the treatment of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Almansa
- Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, ESTEVE, Baldiri Reixach, 4-8, 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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22
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Robson MJ, Turner RC, Naser ZJ, McCurdy CR, O'Callaghan JP, Huber JD, Matsumoto RR. SN79, a sigma receptor antagonist, attenuates methamphetamine-induced astrogliosis through a blockade of OSMR/gp130 signaling and STAT3 phosphorylation. Exp Neurol 2014; 254:180-9. [PMID: 24508558 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2014.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2013] [Revised: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 01/27/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Methamphetamine (METH) exposure results in dopaminergic neurotoxicity in striatal regions of the brain, an effect that has been linked to an increased risk of Parkinson's disease. Various aspects of neuroinflammation, including astrogliosis, are believed to be contributory factors in METH neurotoxicity. METH interacts with sigma receptors at physiologically relevant concentrations and treatment with sigma receptor antagonists has been shown to mitigate METH-induced neurotoxicity in rodent models. Whether these compounds alter the responses of glial cells within the central nervous system to METH however has yet to be determined. Therefore, the purpose of the current study was to determine whether the sigma receptor antagonist, SN79, mitigates METH-induced striatal reactive astrogliosis. Male, Swiss Webster mice treated with a neurotoxic regimen of METH exhibited time-dependent increases in striatal gfap mRNA and concomitant increases in GFAP protein, indicative of astrogliosis. This is the first report that similar to other neurotoxicants that induce astrogliosis through the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling by stimulating gp-130-linked cytokine signaling resulting from neuroinflammation, METH treatment also increases astrocytic oncostatin m receptor (OSMR) expression and the phosphorylation of STAT3 (Tyr-705) in vivo. Pretreatment with SN79 blocked METH-induced increases in OSMR, STAT3 phosphorylation and astrocyte activation within the striatum. Additionally, METH treatment resulted in striatal cellular degeneration as measured by Fluoro-Jade B, an effect that was mitigated by SN79. The current study provides evidence that sigma receptor antagonists attenuate METH-induced astrocyte activation through a pathway believed to be shared by various neurotoxicants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J Robson
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Vanderbilt University, 1161 21st Ave S., Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Ryan C Turner
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Zachary J Naser
- Department of Neurosurgery, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Christopher R McCurdy
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677-1848, USA; Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, P.O. Box 1848, University, MS 38677-1848, USA
| | - James P O'Callaghan
- Health Effects Laboratory Division, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, 1095 Willowdale Rd., Morgantown, WV 26505, USA
| | - Jason D Huber
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - Rae R Matsumoto
- Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Pharmacy, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA; Center for Neuroscience, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Dr., West Virginia University Health Sciences Center, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA.
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23
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Zamanillo D, Romero L, Merlos M, Vela JM. Sigma 1 receptor: a new therapeutic target for pain. Eur J Pharmacol 2013; 716:78-93. [PMID: 23500210 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2013.01.068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2012] [Revised: 12/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Sigma 1 receptor (σ₁ receptor) is a unique ligand-regulated molecular chaperone located mainly in the endoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane. σ₁ receptor is activated under stress or pathological conditions and interacts with several neurotransmitter receptors and ion channels to modulate their function. The effects reported preclinically with σ₁ receptor ligands are consistent with a role for σ₁ receptor in central sensitization and pain hypersensitivity and suggest a potential therapeutic use of σ₁ receptor antagonists for the management of neuropathic pain as monotherapy. Moreover, data support their use in opioid adjuvant therapy: combination of σ₁ receptor antagonists and opioids results in potentiation of opioid analgesia, without significant increases in opioid-related unwanted effects. Results from clinical trials using selective σ₁ receptor antagonists in several pain conditions are eagerly awaited to ascertain the potential of σ₁ receptor modulation in pain therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Zamanillo
- Esteve, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development. Parc Científic de Barcelona. Carrer Baldiri Reixac, 4-8. 08028 Barcelona, Spain
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Bangaru ML, Weihrauch D, Tang QB, Zoga V, Hogan Q, Wu HE. Sigma-1 receptor expression in sensory neurons and the effect of painful peripheral nerve injury. Mol Pain 2013; 9:47. [PMID: 24015960 PMCID: PMC3847629 DOI: 10.1186/1744-8069-9-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 09/07/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The sigma-1 receptor (σ1R), an endoplasmic reticulum chaperone protein, is widely distributed and regulates numerous intracellular processes in neurons. Nerve injury alters the structure and function of axotomized dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons, contributing to the development of pain. The σ1R is enriched in the spinal cord and modulates pain after peripheral nerve injury. However, σ1R expression in the DRG has not been studied. We therefore characterized σ1R expression in DRGs at baseline and following spinal nerve ligation (SNL) in rats. RESULTS Immunohistochemical (IHC) studies in DRG sections show σ1R in both neuronal somata and satellite glial cells. The punctate distribution of σ1R in the neuronal cytoplasm suggests expression in the endoplasmic reticulum. When classified by neuronal size, large neurons (>1300 μm) showed higher levels of σ1R staining than other groups (700-1300 μm, <700 μm). Comparing σ1R expression in neuronal groups characterized by expression of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), isolectin-B4 (IB4) and neurofilament-200 (NF-200), we found σ1R expression in all three neuronal subpopulations, with highest levels of σ1R expression in the NF-200 group. After SNL, lysates from L5 DRGs that contains axotomized neurons showed decreased σ1R protein but unaffected transcript level, compared with Control DRGs. IHC images also showed decreased σ1R protein expression, in SNL L5 DRGs, and to a lesser extent in the neighboring SNL L4 DRGs. Neurons labeled by CGRP and NF-200 showed decreased σ1R expression in L5 and, to a lesser extent, L4 DRGs. In IB4-labeled neurons, σ1R expression decreased only in axotomized L5 DRGs. Satellite cells also showed decreased σ1R expression in L5 DRGs after SNL. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that σ1R is present in both sensory neurons and satellite cells in rat DRGs. Expression of σ1R is down-regulated in axotomized neurons as well as in their accompanying satellite glial cells, while neighboring uninjured neurons show a lesser down-regulation. Therefore, elevated σ1R expression in neuropathic pain is not an explanation for pain relief after σ1R blockade. This implies that increased levels of endogenous σ1R agonists may play a role, and diminished neuroprotection from loss of glial σ1R may be a contributing factor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madhavi L Bangaru
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Dorothee Weihrauch
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Qing-Bo Tang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Vasiliki Zoga
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Quinn Hogan
- Zablocki Veterans Administration Medical Center, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Hsiang-en Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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Choi JG, Kang SY, Kim JM, Roh DH, Yoon SY, Park JB, Lee JH, Kim HW. Antinociceptive Effect of Cyperi rhizoma and Corydalis tuber Extracts on Neuropathic Pain in Rats. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2012; 16:387-92. [PMID: 23269900 PMCID: PMC3526742 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2012.16.6.387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2012] [Revised: 10/23/2012] [Accepted: 11/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we examined the antinociceptive effect of Cyperi rhizoma (CR) and Corydalis tuber (CT) extracts using a chronic constriction injury-induced neuropathic pain rat model. After the ligation of sciatic nerve, neuropathic pain behavior such as mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were rapidly induced and maintained for 1 month. Repeated treatment of CR or CT (per oral, 10 or 30 mg/kg, twice a day) was performed either in induction (day 0~5) or maintenance (day 14~19) period of neuropathic pain state. Treatment of CR or CT at doses of 30 mg/kg in the induction and maintenance periods significantly decreased the nerve injury-induced mechanical allodynia. In addition, CR and CT at doses of 10 or 30 mg/kg alleviated thermal heat hyperalgesia when they were treated in the maintenance period. Finally, CR or CT (30 mg/kg) treated during the induction period remarkably reduced the nerve injury-induced phosphorylation of NMDA receptor NR1 subunit (pNR1) in the spinal dorsal horn. Results of this study suggest that extracts from CR and CT may be useful to alleviate neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae-Gyun Choi
- Department of Physiology and Brain Research Institute, Chungnam National University Medical School, Daejeon 301-747, Korea
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Romero L, Zamanillo D, Nadal X, Sánchez-Arroyos R, Rivera-Arconada I, Dordal A, Montero A, Muro A, Bura A, Segalés C, Laloya M, Hernández E, Portillo-Salido E, Escriche M, Codony X, Encina G, Burgueño J, Merlos M, Baeyens JM, Giraldo J, López-García JA, Maldonado R, Plata-Salamán CR, Vela JM. Pharmacological properties of S1RA, a new sigma-1 receptor antagonist that inhibits neuropathic pain and activity-induced spinal sensitization. Br J Pharmacol 2012; 166:2289-306. [PMID: 22404321 PMCID: PMC3448894 DOI: 10.1111/j.1476-5381.2012.01942.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The sigma-1 (σ(1) ) receptor is a ligand-regulated molecular chaperone that has been involved in pain, but there is limited understanding of the actions associated with its pharmacological modulation. Indeed, the selectivity and pharmacological properties of σ(1) receptor ligands used as pharmacological tools are unclear and the demonstration that σ(1) receptor antagonists have efficacy in reversing central sensitization-related pain sensitivity is still missing. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The pharmacological properties of a novel σ(1) receptor antagonist (S1RA) were first characterized. S1RA was then used to investigate the effect of pharmacological antagonism of σ(1) receptors on in vivo nociception in sensitizing conditions and on in vitro spinal cord sensitization in mice. Drug levels and autoradiographic, ex vivo binding for σ(1) receptor occupancy were measured to substantiate behavioural data. KEY RESULTS Formalin-induced nociception (both phases), capsaicin-induced mechanical hypersensitivity and sciatic nerve injury-induced mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity were dose-dependently inhibited by systemic administration of S1RA. Occupancy of σ(1) receptors in the CNS was significantly correlated with the antinociceptive effects. No pharmacodynamic tolerance to the antiallodynic and antihyperalgesic effect developed following repeated administration of S1RA to nerve-injured mice. As a mechanistic correlate, electrophysiological recordings demonstrated that pharmacological antagonism of σ(1) receptors attenuated the wind-up responses in spinal cords sensitized by repetitive nociceptive stimulation. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS These findings contribute to evidence identifying the σ(1) receptor as a modulator of activity-induced spinal sensitization and pain hypersensitivity, and suggest σ(1) receptor antagonists as potential novel treatments for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Romero
- Esteve, Drug Discovery and Preclinical Development, Barcelona, Spain
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