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Fofie CK, Granja-Vazquez R, Truong V, Walsh P, Price T, Biswas S, Dussor G, Pancrazio J, Kolber B. Profiling human iPSC-derived sensory neurons for analgesic drug screening using a multi-electrode array. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2025; 5:101051. [PMID: 40367946 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2025.101051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2024] [Revised: 02/16/2025] [Accepted: 04/21/2025] [Indexed: 05/16/2025]
Abstract
Chronic pain is a global health issue, yet effective treatments remain limited due to poor preclinical-to-human translation. To address this, we developed a high-content screening (HCS) platform using hiPSC-derived nociceptors to identify analgesics targeting the peripheral nervous system. These cells, cultured on multi-well microelectrode arrays, achieved nearly 100% active electrodes by week 2, maintaining stable activity for at least 2 weeks. After 28 days, we assessed drug effects on neuronal activity, achieving strong assay performance (robust Z' > 0.5). Pharmacological tests confirmed responses to key analgesic targets, including ion channels (Nav, Cav, Kv, and TRPV1), neurotransmitter receptors (AMPAR and GABA-R), and kinase inhibitors (tyrosine and JAK1/2). Transcriptomic analysis validated target expression, though levels differed from primary human DRG cells. The platform was used to screen over 700 natural compounds, demonstrating its potential for analgesic discovery. This HCS platform facilitates the rapid discovery of uncharacterized analgesics, reducing preclinical-to-human translation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Kuete Fofie
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Rafael Granja-Vazquez
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | | | | | - Theodore Price
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Swati Biswas
- Department of Mathematical Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Gregory Dussor
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Joseph Pancrazio
- Department of Bioengineering, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Benedict Kolber
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA.
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2
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Moseley GL, Mardon A, Watson J, Braithwaite F, Wilson MV, Barker T, Lawrence J, Sheppard D, Reneman MF, Stinson J, Ryan CG. From didactic explanations to co-design, sequential art and embodied learning: challenges, criticisms and future directions of patient pain education. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2025; 6:1536112. [PMID: 40417376 PMCID: PMC12098622 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2025.1536112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2025] [Indexed: 05/27/2025] Open
Abstract
Pain Neuroscience Education (PNE) emerged over two decades ago in response to the incoherence between evidence-based pain management strategies, and consumer and clinician understandings of "how pain works". Many clinical trials have investigated the effects of PNE either as a standalone intervention or embedded within a more complex care package, with mixed results. A range of research methods have been used to explore the inconsistent effects of PNE. Together they (i) identify significant shortcomings and limitations of PNE and (ii) raise the possibility that gaining a broadly scientifically accurate understanding of "how pain works" may be critical for subsequent pain and disability improvements. Both learnings strongly suggest that we need to do better. Extensive research incorporating several interest-holders has led to updated content and language and criticisms of both are addressed. The method of PNE has also been updated, with integration of educational frameworks, teaching strategies and tactics, patient resources and clinical tools that all aim to promote the likelihood that patients will learn key concepts and operationalise them to improve their pain, function and quality of life. Pain Science Education is used to differentiate the new approach from PNE.
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Affiliation(s)
- G. Lorimer Moseley
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amelia Mardon
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- NICM Health Research Institute, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - James Watson
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- Centre for Rehabilitation, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
- Integrated Musculoskeletal Service, North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, Stockton-on-Tees, United Kingdom
| | - Felicity Braithwaite
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Persistent Pain Research Group, Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australia Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Monique V. Wilson
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Persistent Pain Research Group, Hopwood Centre for Neurobiology, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australia Health and Medical Research Institute (SAHMRI), Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Trevor Barker
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- Consumer Advisor, IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - James Lawrence
- Consumer Advisor, IIMPACT in Health, University of South Australia, Kaurna Country, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Dianne Sheppard
- MedHealth Research, MedHealth, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Monash University Accident Research Centre, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Michiel F. Reneman
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, Netherlands
| | - Jennifer Stinson
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- Child Health Evaluative Sciences, the Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children and Lawrence S. Bloomberg, Faculty of Nursing, The University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Cormac G. Ryan
- The Pain Education Team to Advance Learning (PETAL) Collaboration
- Centre for Rehabilitation, School of Health and Life Sciences, Teesside University, Middlesbrough, United Kingdom
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Bavencoffe A, Lopez ER, Johnson KN, Tian J, Gorgun FM, Shen BQ, Domagala DM, Zhu MX, Dessauer CW, Walters ET. Widespread hyperexcitability of nociceptor somata outlasts enhanced avoidance behavior after incision injury. Pain 2025; 166:1088-1104. [PMID: 39432803 PMCID: PMC12003080 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 10/23/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Nociceptors with somata in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) readily switch from an electrically silent state to a hyperactive state of tonic, nonaccommodating, low-frequency, irregular discharge of action potentials (APs). Spontaneous activity (SA) during this state is present in vivo in rats months after spinal cord injury (SCI) and has been causally linked to SCI pain. Intrinsically generated SA and, more generally, ongoing activity (OA) are induced by various neuropathic conditions in rats, mice, and humans and are retained in nociceptor somata after dissociation and culturing, providing a powerful tool for investigating its mechanisms and functions. The present study shows that long-lasting hyperexcitability that can generate OA during modest depolarization in probable nociceptors dissociated from DRGs of male and female rats is induced by plantar incision injury. OA occurred when the soma was artificially depolarized to a level within the normal range of membrane potentials where large, transient depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations (DSFs) can approach AP threshold. This hyperexcitability persisted for at least 3 weeks, whereas behavioral indicators of affective pain-hind paw guarding and increased avoidance of a noxious substrate in an operant conflict test-persisted for 1 week or less. The most consistent electrophysiological alteration associated with OA was enhancement of DSFs. An unexpected discovery after plantar incisions was hyperexcitability in neurons from thoracic DRGs that innervate dermatomes distant from the injured tissue. Potential in vivo functions of widespread, low-frequency nociceptor OA consistent with these and other findings are to contribute to hyperalgesic priming and to drive anxiety-related hypervigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Elia R. Lopez
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Kayla N. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Jinbin Tian
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Falih M. Gorgun
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Breanna Q. Shen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Drue M. Domagala
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Michael X. Zhu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Carmen W. Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
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4
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Schmelz M. Peripheral or central origin of chronic pain? Mu! Pain 2025; 166:963-964. [PMID: 39432810 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2024] [Accepted: 09/18/2024] [Indexed: 10/23/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Martin Schmelz
- Department of Experimental Pain Research, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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Li Z, Zou Y, Niu J, Zhang Y, Yang A, Lin W, Guo J, Wang S, Liu R. IMPDH2's Central Role in Cellular Growth and Diseases: A Potential Therapeutic Target. Cell Prolif 2025:e70031. [PMID: 40251939 DOI: 10.1111/cpr.70031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2025] [Revised: 03/13/2025] [Accepted: 03/18/2025] [Indexed: 04/21/2025] Open
Abstract
IMPDH2 is a rate-limiting enzyme in guanine nucleotide biosynthesis. It plays diverse roles in various physiological and pathological processes: nucleotide metabolism, inflammation, immune function, ribosomal stress. Structural or regulatory alterations in IMPDH2 are linked to significant health issues, and critical relevance in disease progression. We aim to underscore the potential of IMPDH2 as a promising therapeutic target for clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Li
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Yunpeng Zou
- School of Clinical Medicine, Shandong Second Medical University, Weifang, China
| | - Jiayao Niu
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Aohua Yang
- Department of Orthodontics, School and Hospital of Stomatology, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Wenyu Lin
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Jie Guo
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Shuya Wang
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
| | - Ronghan Liu
- Central Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Shandong First Medical University and Shandong Academy of Medical Sciences, Jinan, China
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Yarmolinsky DA, Zeng X, MacKinnon-Booth N, Greene CA, Kim C, Cheng YT, Lenfers Turnes B, Woolf CJ. Differential modification of ascending spinal outputs in acute and chronic pain states. Neuron 2025; 113:1223-1239.e5. [PMID: 40023166 PMCID: PMC12005971 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2025.01.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 11/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2025] [Indexed: 03/04/2025]
Abstract
Pain hypersensitivity arises from the induction of plasticity in peripheral and spinal somatosensory neurons, which modifies nociceptive input to the brain, altering pain perception. We applied longitudinal calcium imaging of spinal dorsal projection neurons to determine whether and how the representation of somatosensory stimuli in the anterolateral tract, the principal pathway transmitting nociceptive signals to the brain, changes between distinct pain states. In healthy mice, we identified stable outputs selective for cooling or warming and a neuronal ensemble activated by noxious thermal and mechanical stimuli. Induction of acute peripheral sensitization by topical capsaicin transiently re-tuned nociceptive output neurons to encode low-intensity stimuli. In contrast, peripheral nerve injury resulted in a persistent suppression of innocuous spinal outputs coupled with persistent activation of a normally silent population of high-threshold neurons. These results demonstrate differential modulation of spinal outputs to the brain during nociceptive and neuropathic pain states.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A Yarmolinsky
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Xiangsunze Zeng
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | | | - Caitlin A Greene
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Chloe Kim
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Yu-Ting Cheng
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bruna Lenfers Turnes
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Clifford J Woolf
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Regnacq L, Thota AK, Sanabria AO, McPherson L, Renaud S, Romain O, Bornat Y, Abbas JJ, Jung R, Kölbl F. Fascicle-selective kilohertz-frequency neural conduction block with longitudinal intrafascicular electrodes. J Neural Eng 2025; 22:026045. [PMID: 40147043 PMCID: PMC11969234 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/adc62a] [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] [Received: 10/15/2024] [Revised: 02/25/2025] [Accepted: 03/27/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025]
Abstract
Objective.Electrical stimulation of peripheral nerves is used to treat a variety of disorders and conditions. While conventional biphasic pulse stimulation typically induces neural activity in fibers, kilohertz (kHz) continuous stimulation can block neural conduction, offering a promising alternative to drug-based therapies for alleviating abnormal neural activity. This study explores strategies to enhance the selectivity and control of high-frequency neural conduction block using intrafascicular electrodes.Approach. In vivoexperiments were conducted in a rodent model to assess the effects of kHz stimulation delivered via longitudinal intrafascicular electrodes (LIFEs) on motor axons within the tibial and common peroneal fascicles of the sciatic nerve.Main results.We demonstrated that a progressive and selective block of neural conduction is achievable with LIFEs. We showed that the amount of neural conduction block can be tuned by adjusting the amplitude and frequency of kHz stimulation. Additionally, we achieved interfascicular selectivity with intrafascicular electrodes, with this selectivity being modulated by the kHz stimulation frequency. We also observed a small amount of onset response spillover, which could be minimized by increasing the blocking stimulus frequency. Muscle fatigue was quantified during kHz continuous stimulation and compared to control scenarios, revealing that the muscle was able to recover from fatigue during the block, confirming a true block of motor neurons.Significance.Our findings show that kHz stimulation using LIFEs can be precisely controlled to achieve selective conduction block. By leveraging existing knowledge from conventional stimulation techniques, this approach allows for the development of stimulation protocols that effectively block abnormal neural patterns with reduced side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Regnacq
- ETIS Lab, UMR 8051, CY Cergy Paris University, ENSEA, Cergy, France
- IMS Lab, UMR 5218, University Bordeaux, Bordeaux INP, Talence, France
| | - Anil K Thota
- The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research—I3R,University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States of America
| | - Arianna Ortega Sanabria
- The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research—I3R,University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States of America
| | - Laura McPherson
- Department of Neurology, Washington University, St. Louis, MO, United States of America
| | - Sylvie Renaud
- IMS Lab, UMR 5218, University Bordeaux, Bordeaux INP, Talence, France
| | - Olivier Romain
- ETIS Lab, UMR 8051, CY Cergy Paris University, ENSEA, Cergy, France
| | - Yannick Bornat
- IMS Lab, UMR 5218, University Bordeaux, Bordeaux INP, Talence, France
| | - James J Abbas
- The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research—I3R,University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States of America
| | - Ranu Jung
- The Institute for Integrative & Innovative Research—I3R,University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR, United States of America
| | - Florian Kölbl
- ETIS Lab, UMR 8051, CY Cergy Paris University, ENSEA, Cergy, France
- IMS Lab, UMR 5218, University Bordeaux, Bordeaux INP, Talence, France
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Hu J, Fan W, Xu Y, Li X, Zhang H, Li S, Xue L. Maladaptive changes in the homeostasis of AEA-TRPV1/CB1R induces pain-related hyperactivity of nociceptors after spinal cord injury. Cell Biosci 2025; 15:2. [PMID: 39789637 PMCID: PMC11720958 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-025-01345-6] [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: 10/30/2024] [Accepted: 01/02/2025] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathic pain resulting from spinal cord injury (SCI) is associated with persistent hyperactivity of primary nociceptors. Anandamide (AEA) has been reported to modulate neuronal excitability and synaptic transmission through activation of cannabinoid type-1 receptors (CB1Rs) and transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1). However, the role of AEA and these receptors in the hyperactivity of nociceptors after SCI remains unclear. RESULTS In this study, we investigated the effects of AEA and its receptors on the hyperexcitability of mouse dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons after SCI. Using a whole-cell patch-clamp technique, we found that the timing of SCI-induced hyperexcitability in nociceptors paralleled an increase in the endocannabinoid AEA content. The expression of TRPV1 and CB1R was also upregulated at different time points after SCI. High-dose extracellular administration of AEA increased the excitability of naive DRG neurons, leading to the transition from a rapidly accommodating (RA) hypoexcitable state to a highly excitable non-accommodating (NA) state. These AEA-induced transitions were facilitated by increased TRPV1 transcription. Pharmacological and Ca2+ imaging experiments revealed that AEA induced hyperexcitability in nociceptors after SCI via the AEA-TRPV1-Ca2+ pathway, whereas activation of CB1Rs reduced SCI-induced hyperexcitability and maintained cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyto) at low levels in the early stages of SCI. As the AEA and TRPV1 levels increased after SCI, adaptive neuroprotection transitioned to a maladaptive hyperactive state, leading to sustained pain. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, this study provides new insights into how endocannabinoids regulate nociceptor activity after SCI, offering potential targets for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- JiaQi Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Pain Management, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - WenYong Fan
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Spine and Spinal Cord Injury Repair and Regeneration, Ministry of Education, Department of Orthopedics, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, People's Republic of China
| | - Yue Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - XiaoFei Li
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - HaoYang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China
| | - Shun Li
- Center for Rehabilitation Medicine, Department of Pain Management, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Affiliated People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, 310014, People's Republic of China
| | - Lei Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology and MOE Frontiers Center for Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Physiology and Neurobiology, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200438, People's Republic of China.
- Research Institute of Intelligent Complex Systems, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200433, People's Republic of China.
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Chiarugi A, Buonvicino D. Critical reflections on medication overuse headache in patients with migraine: An unsolved riddle in nociception. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2025; 17:100179. [PMID: 40040782 PMCID: PMC11876746 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2025.100179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2025] [Accepted: 02/05/2025] [Indexed: 03/06/2025]
Abstract
Migraine chronification very frequently exposes patients to the inevitable risk of excessive symptomatic intake that, in turn, prompts development of medication overuse headache (MOH). The latter further compromises headache severity establishing a vicious cycle of symptomatic intake and relapsing head pain that critically worsens the overall clinical status of patients. A great deal of attention has been focused on MOH pathogenesis, and thanks to preclinical and clinical studies knowledge about this disorder is now remarkably advanced. Still, some open questions remain regarding issues related to the neurobiology and neurochemistry underpinning pain chronification in MOH patients, as well as the remedies capable of interrupting pronociceptive cephalic sensitization and drug overuse. Here, a critical reappraisal of these issues is provided in an attempt to gain deeper insight and promote debate on a pain disorder that still represents a conundrum in the field of nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Chiarugi
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology Department of Health Sciences University of Florence Florence Italy
- Headache Center and Clinical Pharmacology Unit Careggi University Hospital Florence Italy
| | - Daniela Buonvicino
- Section of Clinical Pharmacology and Oncology Department of Health Sciences University of Florence Florence Italy
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10
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Singh S, Ellioff KJ, Bruchas MR, Land BB, Stella N. Analgesic Properties of Next-Generation Modulators of Endocannabinoid Signaling: Leveraging Modern Tools for the Development of Novel Therapeutics. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 2024; 391:162-173. [PMID: 39060165 PMCID: PMC11493443 DOI: 10.1124/jpet.124.002119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Targeting the endocannabinoid (eCB) signaling system for pain relief is an important treatment option that is only now beginning to be mechanistically explored. In this review, we focus on two recently appreciated cannabinoid-based targeting strategies, treatments with cannabidiol (CBD) and α/β-hydrolase domain containing 6 (ABHD6) inhibitors, which have the exciting potential to produce pain relief through distinct mechanisms of action and without intoxication. We review evidence on plant-derived cannabinoids for pain, with an emphasis on CBD and its multiple molecular targets expressed in pain pathways. We also discuss the function of eCB signaling in regulating pain responses and the therapeutic promises of inhibitors targeting ABHD6, a 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG)-hydrolyzing enzyme. Finally, we discuss how the novel cannabinoid biosensor GRABeCB2.0 may be leveraged to enable the discovery of targets modulated by cannabinoids at a circuit-specific level. SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT: Cannabis has been used by humans as an effective medicine for millennia, including for pain management. Recent evidence emphasizes the therapeutic potential of compounds that modulate endocannabinoid signaling. Specifically, cannabidiol and inhibitors of the enzyme ABHD6 represent promising strategies to achieve pain relief by modulating endocannabinoid signaling in pain pathways via distinct, nonintoxicating mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simar Singh
- Departments of Pharmacology (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (M.R.B.), and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.S.), and Center of Excellence in Neuroscience of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Kaylin J Ellioff
- Departments of Pharmacology (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (M.R.B.), and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.S.), and Center of Excellence in Neuroscience of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Michael R Bruchas
- Departments of Pharmacology (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (M.R.B.), and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.S.), and Center of Excellence in Neuroscience of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Benjamin B Land
- Departments of Pharmacology (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (M.R.B.), and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.S.), and Center of Excellence in Neuroscience of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Nephi Stella
- Departments of Pharmacology (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine (M.R.B.), and Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences (N.S.), and Center of Excellence in Neuroscience of Addiction, Pain, and Emotion (S.S., K.J.E., M.R.B., B.B.L., N.S.), University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
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11
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Lacagnina MJ, Willcox KF, Boukelmoune N, Bavencoffe A, Sankaranarayanan I, Barratt DT, Zuberi YA, Dayani D, Chavez MV, Lu JT, Farinotti AB, Shiers S, Barry AM, Mwirigi JM, Tavares-Ferreira D, Funk GA, Cervantes AM, Svensson CI, Walters ET, Hutchinson MR, Heijnen CJ, Price TJ, Fiore NT, Grace PM. B cells drive neuropathic pain-related behaviors in mice through IgG-Fc gamma receptor signaling. Sci Transl Med 2024; 16:eadj1277. [PMID: 39321269 PMCID: PMC11479571 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.adj1277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/03/2024] [Indexed: 09/27/2024]
Abstract
Neuroimmune interactions are essential for the development of neuropathic pain, yet the contributions of distinct immune cell populations have not been fully unraveled. Here, we demonstrate the critical role of B cells in promoting mechanical hypersensitivity (allodynia) after peripheral nerve injury in male and female mice. Depletion of B cells with a single injection of anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody at the time of injury prevented the development of allodynia. B cell-deficient (muMT) mice were similarly spared from allodynia. Nerve injury was associated with increased immunoglobulin G (IgG) accumulation in ipsilateral lumbar dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) and dorsal spinal cords. IgG was colocalized with sensory neurons and macrophages in DRGs and microglia in spinal cords. IgG also accumulated in DRG samples from human donors with chronic pain, colocalizing with a marker for macrophages and satellite glia. RNA sequencing revealed a B cell population in naive mouse and human DRGs. A B cell transcriptional signature was enriched in DRGs from human donors with neuropathic pain. Passive transfer of IgG from injured mice induced allodynia in injured muMT recipient mice. The pronociceptive effects of IgG are likely mediated through immune complexes interacting with Fc gamma receptors (FcγRs) expressed by sensory neurons, microglia, and macrophages, given that both mechanical allodynia and hyperexcitability of dissociated DRG neurons were abolished in nerve-injured FcγR-deficient mice. Consistently, the pronociceptive effects of IgG passive transfer were lost in FcγR-deficient mice. These data reveal that a B cell-IgG-FcγR axis is required for the development of neuropathic pain in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. Lacagnina
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kendal F. Willcox
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Nabila Boukelmoune
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Alexis Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77225, USA
| | - Ishwarya Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Daniel T. Barratt
- School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
| | - Younus A. Zuberi
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Dorsa Dayani
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Melissa V. Chavez
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jonathan T. Lu
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | | | - Stephanie Shiers
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Allison M. Barry
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Juliet M. Mwirigi
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Diana Tavares-Ferreira
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | | | | | - Camilla I. Svensson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, 17177 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77225, USA
| | - Mark R. Hutchinson
- School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
- Davies Livestock Research Centre, University of Adelaide, Roseworthy, SA 5371, Australia
- Australian Research Council Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Cobi J. Heijnen
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Rice University, Houston, TX 77005, USA
| | - Theodore J. Price
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Nathan T. Fiore
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Peter M. Grace
- Laboratories of Neuroimmunology, Department of Symptom Research, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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12
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Li Y, Uhelski ML, North RY, Mwirigi JM, Tatsui CE, McDonough KE, Cata JP, Corrales G, Dussor G, Price TJ, Dougherty PM. Tomivosertib reduces ectopic activity in dorsal root ganglion neurons from patients with radiculopathy. Brain 2024; 147:2991-2997. [PMID: 39046204 PMCID: PMC11370786 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awae178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2023] [Revised: 04/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Spontaneous activity in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons is a key driver of neuropathic pain in patients suffering from this largely untreated disease. While many intracellular signalling mechanisms have been examined in preclinical models that drive spontaneous activity, none have been tested directly on spontaneously active human nociceptors. Using cultured DRG neurons recovered during thoracic vertebrectomy surgeries, we showed that inhibition of mitogen-activated protein kinase interacting kinase (MNK) with tomivosertib (eFT508, 25 nM) reversibly suppresses spontaneous activity in human sensory neurons that are likely nociceptors based on size and action potential characteristics associated with painful dermatomes within minutes of treatment. Tomivosertib treatment also decreased action potential amplitude and produced alterations in the magnitude of after hyperpolarizing currents, suggesting modification of Na+ and K+ channel activity as a consequence of drug treatment. Parallel to the effects on electrophysiology, eFT508 treatment led to a profound loss of eIF4E serine 209 phosphorylation in primary sensory neurons, a specific substrate of MNK, within 2 min of drug treatment. Our results create a compelling case for the future testing of MNK inhibitors in clinical trials for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Megan L Uhelski
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert Y North
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Juliet M Mwirigi
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Claudio E Tatsui
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kathleen E McDonough
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Juan P Cata
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - German Corrales
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Greg Dussor
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Theodore J Price
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, The University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Patrick M Dougherty
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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13
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Della Porta D, Scheirman E, Legrain V. Top-down attention does not modulate mechanical hypersensitivity consecutive to central sensitization: insights from an experimental analysis. Pain 2024; 165:2098-2110. [PMID: 38595183 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
ABSTRACT According to the neurocognitive model of attention to pain, when the attentional resources invested in a task unrelated to pain are high, limited cognitive resources can be directed toward the pain. This is supported by experimental studies showing that diverting people's attention away from acute pain leads to experiencing less pain. Theoretical work has suggested that this phenomenon may present a top-down modulatory mechanism for persistent pain as well. However, conclusive empirical evidence is lacking. To fill this gap, we used a preregistered, double-blind, between-subject study design to investigate whether performing a tailored, demanding, and engaging working memory task unrelated to pain (difficult) vs a task that requires less mental effort to be performed (easy), could lead to lower development of secondary hypersensitivity-a hallmark of central sensitization. Eighty-five healthy volunteers, randomly assigned to one of the 2 conditions, performed a visual task with a different cognitive load (difficult vs easy), while secondary hypersensitivity was induced on their nondominant forearm using high-frequency stimulation. To assess the development of secondary hypersensitivity, sensitivity to mechanical stimuli was measured 3 times: T0, for baseline and 20 (T1) and 40 (T2) minutes after the procedure. We did not observe any significant difference in the development of secondary hypersensitivity between the 2 groups, neither in terms of the intensity of mechanical sensitivity nor its spatial extent. Our results suggest that a top-down modulation through attention might not be sufficient to affect pain sensitization and the development of secondary hypersensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delia Della Porta
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Eléonore Scheirman
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Valéry Legrain
- Institute of Neuroscience, Université catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Psychological Sciences Research Institute, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Louvain Bionics, Université catholique de Louvain, Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
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14
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Sankaranarayanan I, Kume M, Mohammed A, Mwirigi JM, Inturi NN, Munro G, Petersen KA, Tavares-Ferreira D, Price TJ. Persistent changes in nociceptor translatomes govern hyperalgesic priming in mouse models. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.08.07.606891. [PMID: 39149295 PMCID: PMC11326310 DOI: 10.1101/2024.08.07.606891] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Hyperalgesic priming is a model system that has been widely used to understand plasticity in painful stimulus-detecting sensory neurons, called nociceptors. A key feature of this model system is that following priming, stimuli that do not normally cause hyperalgesia now readily provoke this state. We hypothesized that hyperalgesic priming occurs due to reorganization of translation of mRNA in nociceptors. To test this hypothesis, we used paclitaxel treatment as the priming stimulus and translating ribosome affinity purification (TRAP) to measure persistent changes in mRNA translation in Nav1.8+ nociceptors. TRAP sequencing revealed 161 genes with persistently altered mRNA translation in the primed state. We identified Gpr88 as upregulated and Metrn as downregulated. We confirmed a functional role for these genes, wherein a GPR88 agonist causes pain only in primed mice and established hyperalgesic priming is reversed by Meteorin. Our work demonstrates that altered nociceptor translatomes are causative in producing hyperalgesic priming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishwarya Sankaranarayanan
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Moeno Kume
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Ayaan Mohammed
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Juliet M Mwirigi
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Nikhil Nageswar Inturi
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | | | | | - Diana Tavares-Ferreira
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
| | - Theodore J Price
- Pain Neurobiology Research Group, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, Texas
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15
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David ET, Yousuf MS, Mei HR, Jain A, Krishnagiri S, Elahi H, Venkatesan R, Srikanth KD, Dussor G, Dalva MB, Price TJ. ephrin-B2 promotes nociceptive plasticity and hyperalgesic priming through EphB2-MNK-eIF4E signaling in both mice and humans. Pharmacol Res 2024; 206:107284. [PMID: 38925462 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2024.107284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Ephrin-B-EphB signaling can promote pain through ligand-receptor interactions between peripheral cells, like immune cells expressing ephrin-Bs, and EphB receptors expressed by DRG neurons. Previous studies have shown increased ephrin-B2 expression in peripheral tissues like synovium of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis patients, indicating the clinical significance of this signaling. The primary goal of this study was to understand how ephrin-B2 acts on mouse and human DRG neurons, which express EphB receptors, to promote pain and nociceptor plasticity. We hypothesized that ephrin-B2 would promote nociceptor plasticity and hyperalgesic priming through MNK-eIF4E signaling, a critical mechanism for nociceptive plasticity induced by growth factors, cytokines and nerve injury. Both male and female mice developed dose-dependent mechanical hypersensitivity in response to ephrin-B2, and both sexes showed hyperalgesic priming when challenged with PGE2 injection either to the paw or the cranial dura. Acute nociceptive behaviors and hyperalgesic priming were blocked in mice lacking MNK1 (Mknk1 knockout mice) and by eFT508, a specific MNK inhibitor. Sensory neuron-specific knockout of EphB2 using Pirt-Cre demonstrated that ephrin-B2 actions require this receptor. In Ca2+-imaging experiments on cultured DRG neurons, ephrin-B2 treatment enhanced Ca2+ transients in response to PGE2 and these effects were absent in DRG neurons from MNK1-/- and EphB2-PirtCre mice. In experiments on human DRG neurons, ephrin-B2 increased eIF4E phosphorylation and enhanced Ca2+ responses to PGE2 treatment, both blocked by eFT508. We conclude that ephrin-B2 acts directly on mouse and human sensory neurons to induce nociceptor plasticity via MNK-eIF4E signaling, offering new insight into how ephrin-B signaling promotes pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eric T David
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Muhammad Saad Yousuf
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Hao-Ruei Mei
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Ashita Jain
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Sharada Krishnagiri
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Hajira Elahi
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Rupali Venkatesan
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Kolluru D Srikanth
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - Gregory Dussor
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA
| | - Matthew B Dalva
- Jefferson Synaptic Biology Center, Department of Neuroscience, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA 19107, USA; Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA; Tulane Brain Institute, Department of Cell and Molecular Biology, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70124, USA
| | - Theodore J Price
- University of Texas at Dallas, School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, USA.
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16
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Pinheiro-Junior EL, Alirahimi E, Peigneur S, Isensee J, Schiffmann S, Erkoc P, Fürst R, Vilcinskas A, Sennoner T, Koludarov I, Hempel BF, Tytgat J, Hucho T, von Reumont BM. Diversely evolved xibalbin variants from remipede venom inhibit potassium channels and activate PKA-II and Erk1/2 signaling. BMC Biol 2024; 22:164. [PMID: 39075558 PMCID: PMC11288129 DOI: 10.1186/s12915-024-01955-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/31/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The identification of novel toxins from overlooked and taxonomically exceptional species bears potential for various pharmacological applications. The remipede Xibalbanus tulumensis, an underwater cave-dwelling crustacean, is the only crustacean for which a venom system has been described. Its venom contains several xibalbin peptides that have an inhibitor cysteine knot (ICK) scaffold. RESULTS Our screenings revealed that all tested xibalbin variants particularly inhibit potassium channels. Xib1 and xib13 with their eight-cysteine domain similar to spider knottins also inhibit voltage-gated sodium channels. No activity was noted on calcium channels. Expanding the functional testing, we demonstrate that xib1 and xib13 increase PKA-II and Erk1/2 sensitization signaling in nociceptive neurons, which may initiate pain sensitization. Our phylogenetic analysis suggests that xib13 either originates from the common ancestor of pancrustaceans or earlier while xib1 is more restricted to remipedes. The ten-cysteine scaffolded xib2 emerged from xib1, a result that is supported by our phylogenetic and machine learning-based analyses. CONCLUSIONS Our functional characterization of synthesized variants of xib1, xib2, and xib13 elucidates their potential as inhibitors of potassium channels in mammalian systems. The specific interaction of xib2 with Kv1.6 channels, which are relevant to treating variants of epilepsy, shows potential for further studies. At higher concentrations, xib1 and xib13 activate the kinases PKA-II and ERK1/2 in mammalian sensory neurons, suggesting pain sensitization and potential applications related to pain research and therapy. While tested insect channels suggest that all probably act as neurotoxins, the biological function of xib1, xib2, and xib13 requires further elucidation. A novel finding on their evolutionary origin is the apparent emergence of X. tulumensis-specific xib2 from xib1. Our study is an important cornerstone for future studies to untangle the origin and function of these enigmatic proteins as important components of remipede but also other pancrustacean and arthropod venoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Lopes Pinheiro-Junior
- Toxicology and Pharmacology - Campus Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Herestraat 49, PO Box 922, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Ehsan Alirahimi
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Cologne, Translational Pain Research, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Steve Peigneur
- Toxicology and Pharmacology - Campus Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Herestraat 49, PO Box 922, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Jörg Isensee
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Cologne, Translational Pain Research, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Susanne Schiffmann
- Fraunhofer Institute for Translational Medicine and Pharmacology ITMP, Theodor-Stern-Kai 7, 60596, Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
| | - Pelin Erkoc
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Robert Fürst
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Biology, Goethe University Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str. 9, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany
- LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Andreas Vilcinskas
- LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt, Germany
- Department of Bioresources, Fraunhofer Institute for Molecular Biology and Applied Ecology (IME-BR), Ohlebergsweg 14, 35394, Giessen, Germany
| | - Tobias Sennoner
- Department of Informatics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, i12, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstr. 3, 85748, Garching, Munich, Germany
| | - Ivan Koludarov
- Department of Informatics, Bioinformatics and Computational Biology, i12, Technical University of Munich, Boltzmannstr. 3, 85748, Garching, Munich, Germany
| | - Benjamin-Florian Hempel
- Freie Unveristät Berlin, Veterinary Centre for Resistance Research (TZR), Robert-Von-Ostertag Str. 8, 14163, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jan Tytgat
- Toxicology and Pharmacology - Campus Gasthuisberg, University of Leuven (KU Leuven), Herestraat 49, PO Box 922, 3000, Louvain, Belgium
| | - Tim Hucho
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Cologne, Translational Pain Research, University Hospital of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Björn M von Reumont
- LOEWE Center for Translational Biodiversity Genomics (LOEWE-TBG), Senckenberganlage 25, 60325, Frankfurt, Germany.
- Faculty of Biological Sciences, Institute of Cell Biology and Neuroscience, Goethe, Frankfurt, Max-Von-Laue-Str 13, 60438, Frankfurt, Germany.
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17
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Bavencoffe A, Zhu MY, Neerukonda SV, Johnson KN, Dessauer CW, Walters ET. Induction of long-term hyperexcitability by memory-related cAMP signaling in isolated nociceptor cell bodies. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.07.13.603393. [PMID: 39071414 PMCID: PMC11275899 DOI: 10.1101/2024.07.13.603393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
Persistent hyperactivity of nociceptors is known to contribute significantly to long-lasting sensitization and ongoing pain in many clinical conditions. It is often assumed that nociceptor hyperactivity is mainly driven by continuing stimulation from inflammatory mediators. We have tested an additional possibility: that persistent increases in excitability promoting hyperactivity can be induced by a prototypical cellular signaling pathway long known to induce late-phase long-term potentiation (LTP) of synapses in brain regions involved in memory formation. This cAMP-PKA-CREB-gene transcription-protein synthesis pathway was tested using whole-cell current clamp methods on small dissociated sensory neurons (primarily nociceptors) from dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) excised from previously uninjured ("naïve") rats. Six-hour treatment with the specific Gαs-coupled 5-HT4 receptor agonist, prucalopride, or with the adenylyl cyclase activator, forskolin, induced long-term hyperexcitability (LTH) in DRG neurons that manifested 12-24 hours later as action potential (AP) discharge (ongoing activity, OA) during artificial depolarization to -45 mV, a membrane potential that is normally subthreshold for AP generation. Prucalopride treatment also induced significant long-lasting depolarization of resting membrane potential (from -69 to -66 mV), enhanced depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations (DSFs) of membrane potential, and indications of reduced AP threshold and rheobase. LTH was prevented by co-treatment of prucalopride with inhibitors of PKA, CREB, gene transcription, and protein synthesis. As in the induction of synaptic memory, many other cellular signals are likely to be involved. However, the discovery that this prototypical memory induction pathway can induce nociceptor LTH, along with reports that cAMP signaling and CREB activity in DRGs can induce hyperalgesic priming, suggest that early, temporary, cAMP-induced transcriptional and translational mechanisms can induce nociceptor LTH that might last for long periods. An interesting possibility is that these mechanisms can also be reactivated by re-exposure to inflammatory mediators such as serotonin during subsequent challenges to bodily integrity, "reconsolidating" the cellular memory and thereby extending the duration of persistent nociceptor hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA 77030
| | - Michael Y. Zhu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA 77030
| | - Sanjay V. Neerukonda
- Medical Scientist Training Program, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA 77030
| | - Kayla N. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA 77030
| | - Carmen W. Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA 77030
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School at UTHealth, Houston, Texas, USA 77030
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18
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Bavencoffe A, Zhu MY, Neerukonda SV, Johnson KN, Dessauer CW, Walters ET. Induction of long-term hyperexcitability by memory-related cAMP signaling in isolated nociceptor cell bodies. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2024; 16:100166. [PMID: 39399224 PMCID: PMC11470187 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2024.100166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2024] [Revised: 09/10/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 10/15/2024]
Abstract
Persistent hyperactivity of nociceptors is known to contribute significantly to long-lasting sensitization and ongoing pain in many clinical conditions. It is often assumed that nociceptor hyperactivity is mainly driven by continuing stimulation from inflammatory mediators. We have tested an additional possibility: that persistent increases in excitability promoting hyperactivity can be induced by a prototypical cellular signaling pathway long known to induce late-phase long-term potentiation (LTP) of synapses in brain regions involved in memory formation. This cAMP-PKA-CREB-gene transcription-protein synthesis pathway was tested using whole-cell current clamp methods on small dissociated sensory neurons (primarily nociceptors) from dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) excised from previously uninjured ("naïve") male rats. Six-hour treatment with the specific Gαs-coupled 5-HT4 receptor agonist, prucalopride, or with the adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin induced long-term hyperexcitability (LTH) in DRG neurons that manifested 12-24 h later as action potential (AP) discharge (ongoing activity, OA) during artificial depolarization to -45 mV, a membrane potential that is normally subthreshold for AP generation. Prucalopride treatment also induced significant long-lasting depolarization of resting membrane potential (from -69 to -66 mV), enhanced depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations (DSFs) of membrane potential, and produced trends for reduced AP threshold and rheobase. LTH was prevented by co-treatment of prucalopride with inhibitors of PKA, CREB, gene transcription, or protein synthesis. As in the induction of synaptic memory, many other cellular signals are likely to be involved. However, the discovery that this prototypical memory induction pathway can induce nociceptor LTH, along with reports that cAMP signaling and CREB activity in DRGs can induce hyperalgesic priming, suggest that early, temporary, cAMP-induced transcriptional and translational mechanisms can induce nociceptor LTH that might last for long periods. The present results also raise the question of whether reactivation of primed signaling mechanisms by re-exposure to inflammatory mediators linked to cAMP synthesis during subsequent challenges to bodily integrity can "reconsolidate" nociceptor memory, extending the duration of persistent hyperexcitability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Michael Y. Zhu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Sanjay V. Neerukonda
- Medical Scientist Training Program, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Kayla N. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Carmen W. Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Wang H, Wang Q, He Q, Li S, Zhao Y, Zuo Y. Current perioperative nociception monitoring and potential directions. Asian J Surg 2024; 47:2558-2565. [PMID: 38548545 DOI: 10.1016/j.asjsur.2024.03.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2023] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Perioperative nociception-antinociception balance is essential for the prevention of adverse postoperative events. Estimating the nociception level helps optimize intraoperative management. In the past two decades, various nociception monitoring devices have been developed for the identification of intraoperative nociception. However, each type of nociception monitoring device has advantages and disadvantages, limiting their clinical application in particular patients and settings. Therefore, this review aimed to summarize the information on nociceptor monitoring in current clinical settings, explore each technique's particularities, and possible future directions to provide a reference for clinicians and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, China
| | - Qifeng Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, China
| | - Qinqin He
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, China
| | - Shikuo Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yan'an Hospital of Kunming City, Kunming Medical University, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yuyi Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yunxia Zuo
- Department of Anesthesiology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China; Laboratory of Anesthesia and Critical Care Medicine, National-Local Joint Engineering Research Centre of Translational Medicine of Anesthesiology, China.
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20
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Yarmolinsky DA, Zeng X, MacKinnon-Booth N, Greene C, Kim C, Woolf CJ. Selective modification of ascending spinal outputs in acute and neuropathic pain states. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.04.08.588581. [PMID: 38645252 PMCID: PMC11030409 DOI: 10.1101/2024.04.08.588581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/23/2024]
Abstract
Pain hypersensitivity arises from the plasticity of peripheral and spinal somatosensory neurons, which modifies nociceptive input to the brain and alters pain perception. We utilized chronic calcium imaging of spinal dorsal horn neurons to determine how the representation of somatosensory stimuli in the anterolateral tract, the principal pathway transmitting nociceptive signals to the brain, changes between distinct pain states. In healthy conditions, we identify stable, narrowly tuned outputs selective for cooling or warming, and a neuronal ensemble activated by intense/noxious thermal and mechanical stimuli. Induction of an acute peripheral sensitization with capsaicin selectively and transiently retunes nociceptive output neurons to encode low-intensity stimuli. In contrast, peripheral nerve injury-induced neuropathic pain results in a persistent suppression of innocuous spinal outputs coupled with activation of a normally silent population of high-threshold neurons. These results demonstrate the differential modulation of specific spinal outputs to the brain during nociceptive and neuropathic pain states.
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21
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Tian J, Bavencoffe AG, Zhu MX, Walters ET. Readiness of nociceptor cell bodies to generate spontaneous activity results from background activity of diverse ion channels and high input resistance. Pain 2024; 165:893-907. [PMID: 37862056 PMCID: PMC10950548 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000003091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Nociceptor cell bodies generate "spontaneous" discharge that can promote ongoing pain in persistent pain conditions. Little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Recordings from nociceptor cell bodies (somata) dissociated from rodent and human dorsal root ganglia have shown that previous pain in vivo is associated with low-frequency discharge controlled by irregular depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations of membrane potential (DSFs), likely produced by transient inward currents across the somal input resistance. Using mouse nociceptors, we show that DSFs are associated with high somal input resistance over a wide range of membrane potentials, including depolarized levels where DSFs approach action potential (AP) threshold. Input resistance and both the amplitude and frequency of DSFs were increased in neurons exhibiting spontaneous activity. Ion substitution experiments indicated that the depolarizing phase of DSFs is generated by spontaneous opening of channels permeable to Na + or Ca 2+ and that Ca 2+ -permeable channels are especially important for larger DSFs. Partial reduction of the amplitude or frequency of DSFs by perfusion of pharmacological inhibitors indicated small but significant contributions from Nav1.7, Nav1.8, TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPM4, and N-type Ca 2+ channels. Less specific blockers suggested a contribution from NALCN channels, and global knockout suggested a role for Nav1.9. The combination of high somal input resistance plus background activity of diverse ion channels permeable to Na + or Ca 2+ produces DSFs that are poised to reach AP threshold if resting membrane potential depolarizes, AP threshold decreases, or DSFs become enhanced-all of which can occur under painful neuropathic and inflammatory conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinbin Tian
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Alexis G. Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Michael X. Zhu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
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22
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Grau JW, Hudson KE, Johnston DT, Partipilo SR. Updating perspectives on spinal cord function: motor coordination, timing, relational processing, and memory below the brain. Front Syst Neurosci 2024; 18:1184597. [PMID: 38444825 PMCID: PMC10912355 DOI: 10.3389/fnsys.2024.1184597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Those studying neural systems within the brain have historically assumed that lower-level processes in the spinal cord act in a mechanical manner, to relay afferent signals and execute motor commands. From this view, abstracting temporal and environmental relations is the province of the brain. Here we review work conducted over the last 50 years that challenges this perspective, demonstrating that mechanisms within the spinal cord can organize coordinated behavior (stepping), induce a lasting change in how pain (nociceptive) signals are processed, abstract stimulus-stimulus (Pavlovian) and response-outcome (instrumental) relations, and infer whether stimuli occur in a random or regular manner. The mechanisms that underlie these processes depend upon signal pathways (e.g., NMDA receptor mediated plasticity) analogous to those implicated in brain-dependent learning and memory. New data show that spinal cord injury (SCI) can enable plasticity within the spinal cord by reducing the inhibitory effect of GABA. It is suggested that the signals relayed to the brain may contain information about environmental relations and that spinal cord systems can coordinate action in response to descending signals from the brain. We further suggest that the study of stimulus processing, learning, memory, and cognitive-like processing in the spinal cord can inform our views of brain function, providing an attractive model system. Most importantly, the work has revealed new avenues of treatment for those that have suffered a SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- James W. Grau
- Lab of Dr. James Grau, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Cellular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
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23
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Bavencoffe AG, Lopez ER, Johnson KN, Tian J, Gorgun FM, Shen BQ, Zhu MX, Dessauer CW, Walters ET. Widespread latent hyperactivity of nociceptors outlasts enhanced avoidance behavior following incision injury. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.01.30.578108. [PMID: 38352319 PMCID: PMC10862851 DOI: 10.1101/2024.01.30.578108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2024]
Abstract
Nociceptors with somata in dorsal root ganglia (DRGs) exhibit an unusual readiness to switch from an electrically silent state to a hyperactive state of tonic, nonaccommodating, low-frequency, irregular discharge of action potentials (APs). Ongoing activity (OA) during this state is present in vivo in rats months after spinal cord injury (SCI), and has been causally linked to SCI pain. OA induced by various neuropathic conditions in rats, mice, and humans is retained in nociceptor somata after dissociation and culturing, providing a powerful tool for investigating its mechanisms and functions. An important question is whether similar nociceptor OA is induced by painful conditions other than neuropathy. The present study shows that probable nociceptors dissociated from DRGs of rats subjected to postsurgical pain (induced by plantar incision) exhibit OA. The OA was most apparent when the soma was artificially depolarized to a level within the normal range of membrane potentials where large, transient depolarizing spontaneous fluctuations (DSFs) can approach AP threshold. This latent hyperactivity persisted for at least 3 weeks, whereas behavioral indicators of affective pain - hindpaw guarding and increased avoidance of a noxious substrate in an operant conflict test - persisted for 1 week or less. An unexpected discovery was latent OA in neurons from thoracic DRGs that innervate dermatomes distant from the injured tissue. The most consistent electrophysiological alteration associated with OA was enhancement of DSFs. Potential in vivo functions of widespread, low-frequency nociceptor OA consistent with these and other findings are to amplify hyperalgesic priming and to drive anxiety-related hypervigilance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis G. Bavencoffe
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Elia R. Lopez
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Kayla N. Johnson
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Jinbin Tian
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Falih M. Gorgun
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Breanna Q. Shen
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Michael X. Zhu
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Carmen W. Dessauer
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
| | - Edgar T. Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
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24
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Chen HH, Mohsin M, Ge JY, Feng YT, Wang JG, Ou YS, Jiang ZJ, Hu BY, Liu XJ. Optogenetic Activation of Peripheral Somatosensory Neurons in Transgenic Mice as a Neuropathic Pain Model for Assessing the Therapeutic Efficacy of Analgesics. ACS Pharmacol Transl Sci 2024; 7:236-248. [PMID: 38230281 PMCID: PMC10789130 DOI: 10.1021/acsptsci.3c00254] [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: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/17/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Optogenetics is a novel biotechnology widely used to precisely manipulate a specific peripheral sensory neuron or neural circuit. However, the use of optogenetics to assess the therapeutic efficacy of analgesics is elusive. In this study, we generated a transgenic mouse stain in which all primary somatosensory neurons can be optogenetically activated to mimic neuronal hyperactivation in the neuropathic pain state for the assessment of analgesic effects of drugs. A transgenic mouse was generated using the advillin-Cre line mated with the Ai32 strain, in which channelrhodopsin-2 fused to enhanced yellow fluorescence protein (ChR2-EYFP) was conditionally expressed in all types of primary somatosensory neurons (advillincre/ChR2+/+). Immunofluorescence and transdermal photostimulation on the hindpaws were used to verify the transgenic mice. Optical stimulation to evoke pain-like paw withdrawal latency was used to assess the analgesic effects of a series of drugs. Injury- and pain-related molecular biomarkers were investigated with immunohistofluorescence. We found that the expression of ChR2-EYFP was observed in many primary afferents of paw skin and sciatic nerves and in primary sensory neurons and laminae I and II of the spinal dorsal horns in advillincre/ChR2+/+ mice. Transdermal blue light stimulation of the transgenic mouse hindpaw evoked nocifensive paw withdrawal behavior. Treatment with gabapentin, some channel blockers, and local anesthetics, but not opioids or COX-1/2 inhibitors, prolonged the paw withdrawal latency in the transgenic mice. The analgesic effect of gabapentin was also verified by the decreased expression of injury- and pain-related molecular biomarkers. These optogenetic mice provide a promising model for assessing the therapeutic efficacy of analgesics in neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao-Hao Chen
- School
of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
- Pain
and Related Diseases Research Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province 515041, China
| | - Muhammad Mohsin
- Pain
and Related Diseases Research Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province 515041, China
| | - Jia-Yi Ge
- School
of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Yu-Ting Feng
- School
of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Jing-Ge Wang
- School
of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
| | - Yu-Sen Ou
- Pain
and Related Diseases Research Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province 515041, China
| | - Zuo-Jie Jiang
- Pain
and Related Diseases Research Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province 515041, China
| | - Bo-Ya Hu
- Pain
and Related Diseases Research Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province 515041, China
| | - Xing-Jun Liu
- School
of Pharmacy, Nantong University, Nantong, Jiangsu Province 226001, China
- Pain
and Related Diseases Research Laboratory, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, Guangdong Province 515041, China
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25
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Sun C, Deng J, Ma Y, Meng F, Cui X, Li M, Li J, Li J, Yin P, Kong L, Zhang L, Tang P. The dual role of microglia in neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury: Detrimental and protective effects. Exp Neurol 2023; 370:114570. [PMID: 37852469 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2023.114570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a debilitating condition that is frequently accompanied by neuropathic pain, resulting in significant physical and psychological harm to a vast number of individuals globally. Despite the high prevalence of neuropathic pain following SCI, the precise underlying mechanism remains incompletely understood. Microglia are a type of innate immune cell that are present in the central nervous system (CNS). They have been observed to have a significant impact on neuropathic pain following SCI. This article presents a comprehensive overview of recent advances in understanding the role of microglia in the development of neuropathic pain following SCI. Specifically, the article delves into the detrimental and protective effects of microglia on neuropathic pain following SCI, as well as the mechanisms underlying their interconversion. Furthermore, the article provides a thorough overview of potential avenues for future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chang Sun
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China; Department of Orthopedics, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing, China
| | - Junhao Deng
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China; School of Life Sciences, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instruments, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China
| | - Yifei Ma
- School of Medicine, Nankai University, Tianjin, China
| | - Fanqi Meng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Xuanwu Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Xiang Cui
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Jia Li
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Pengbin Yin
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China
| | - Lingjie Kong
- State Key Laboratory of Precision Measurement Technology and Instruments, Department of Precision Instruments, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China; IDG/McGovern Institute for Brain Research, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
| | - Licheng Zhang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China.
| | - Peifu Tang
- Department of Orthopedics, The Fourth Medical Center of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing, China; National Clinical Research Center for Orthopedics, Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation, Beijing, China.
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26
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Walters ET. Exaptation and Evolutionary Adaptation in Nociceptor Mechanisms Driving Persistent Pain. BRAIN, BEHAVIOR AND EVOLUTION 2023; 98:314-330. [PMID: 38035556 PMCID: PMC10922759 DOI: 10.1159/000535552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several evolutionary explanations have been proposed for why chronic pain is a major clinical problem. One is that some mechanisms important for driving chronic pain, while maladaptive for modern humans, were adaptive because they enhanced survival. Evidence is reviewed for persistent nociceptor hyperactivity (PNH), known to promote chronic pain in rodents and humans, being an evolutionarily adaptive response to significant bodily injury, and primitive molecular mechanisms related to cellular injury and stress being exapted (co-opted or repurposed) to drive PNH and consequent pain. SUMMARY PNH in a snail (Aplysia californica), squid (Doryteuthis pealeii), fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster), mice, rats, and humans has been documented as long-lasting enhancement of action potential discharge evoked by peripheral stimuli, and in some of these species as persistent extrinsically driven ongoing activity and/or intrinsic spontaneous activity (OA and SA, respectively). In mammals, OA and SA are often initiated within the protected nociceptor soma long after an inducing injury. Generation of OA or SA in nociceptor somata may be very rare in invertebrates, but prolonged afterdischarge in nociceptor somata readily occurs in sensitized Aplysia. Evidence for the adaptiveness of injury-induced PNH has come from observations of decreased survival of injured squid exposed to predators when PNH is blocked, from plausible survival benefits of chronic sensitization after severe injuries such as amputation, and from the functional coherence and intricacy of mammalian PNH mechanisms. Major contributions of cAMP-PKA signaling (with associated calcium signaling) to the maintenance of PNH both in mammals and molluscs suggest that this ancient stress signaling system was exapted early during the evolution of nociceptors to drive hyperactivity following bodily injury. Vertebrates have retained core cAMP-PKA signaling modules for PNH while adding new extracellular modulators (e.g., opioids) and cAMP-regulated ion channels (e.g., TRPV1 and Nav1.8 channels). KEY MESSAGES Evidence from multiple phyla indicates that PNH is a physiological adaptation that decreases the risk of attacks on injured animals. Core cAMP-PKA signaling modules make major contributions to the maintenance of PNH in molluscs and mammals. This conserved signaling has been linked to ancient cellular responses to stress, which may have been exapted in early nociceptors to drive protective hyperactivity that can persist while bodily functions recover after significant injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar T Walters
- Department of Integrative Biology and Pharmacology, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
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27
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de C Williams AC. Pain: Behavioural expression and response in an evolutionary framework. Evol Med Public Health 2023; 11:429-437. [PMID: 38022798 PMCID: PMC10656790 DOI: 10.1093/emph/eoad038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
An evolutionary perspective offers insights into the major public health problem of chronic (persistent) pain; behaviours associated with it perpetuate both pain and disability. Pain is motivating, and pain-related behaviours promote recovery by immediate active or passive defence; subsequent protection of wounds; suppression of competing responses; energy conservation; vigilance to threat; and learned avoidance of associated cues. When these persist beyond healing, as in chronic pain, they are disabling. In mammals, facial and bodily expression of pain is visible and identifiable by others, while social context, including conspecifics' responses, modulate pain. Studies of responses to pain emphasize onlooker empathy, but people with chronic pain report feeling disbelieved and stigmatized. Observers frequently discount others' pain, best understood in terms of cheater detection-alertness to free riders that underpins the capacity for prosocial behaviours. These dynamics occur both in everyday life and in clinical encounters, providing an account of the adaptiveness of pain-related behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda C de C Williams
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational & Health Psychology, University College London, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
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28
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Negus SS, Akbarali HI, Kang M, Lee YK, Marsh SA, Santos EJ, Zhang Y. Role of mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonist efficacy as a determinant of opioid antinociception in a novel assay of pain-depressed behavior in female and male mice. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1281698. [PMID: 37886350 PMCID: PMC10598607 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1281698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Intermediate efficacy mu opioid receptor (MOR) agonists have potential to retain analgesic effectiveness while improving safety, but the optimal MOR efficacy for effective and safe opioid analgesia is unknown. Preclinical assays of pain-depressed behavior can assess effects of opioids and other candidate analgesics on pain-related behavioral depression, which is a common manifestation of clinically relevant pain and target of pain treatment. Accordingly, the present study goal was to validate a novel assay of pain-depressed locomotor behavior in mice and evaluate the role of MOR efficacy as a determinant of opioid analgesic effects and related safety measures. Methods Male and female ICR mice were tested in a locomotor chamber consisting of 2 compartments connected by a doorway that contained a 1-inch-tall barrier. Dependent measures during 15-min behavioral sessions included crosses between compartments (which required vertical activity to surmount the barrier) and total movement counts (which required horizontal activity to break photobeams in each compartment). Results and Discussion Intraperitoneal injection of lactic acid (IP acid) produced a concentration- and time-dependent depression of both endpoints. Optimal blockade of IP acid-induced behavioral depression with minimal motor impairment was achieved with intermediate-efficacy MOR treatments that also produced less gastrointestinal-transit inhibition and respiratory depression than the high-efficacy MOR agonist fentanyl. Sex differences in treatment effects were rare. Overall, these findings validate a novel procedure for evaluating opioids and other candidate analgesic effects on pain-related behavioral depression in mice and support continued research with intermediate-efficacy MOR agonists as a strategy to retain opioid analgesic effectiveness with improved safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Stevens Negus
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Hamid I. Akbarali
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Minho Kang
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Young K. Lee
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Samuel A. Marsh
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Edna J. Santos
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, United States
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29
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Smith PA. Neuropathic pain; what we know and what we should do about it. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2023; 4:1220034. [PMID: 37810432 PMCID: PMC10559888 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2023.1220034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Neuropathic pain can result from injury to, or disease of the nervous system. It is notoriously difficult to treat. Peripheral nerve injury promotes Schwann cell activation and invasion of immunocompetent cells into the site of injury, spinal cord and higher sensory structures such as thalamus and cingulate and sensory cortices. Various cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, monoamines and neuropeptides effect two-way signalling between neurons, glia and immune cells. This promotes sustained hyperexcitability and spontaneous activity in primary afferents that is crucial for onset and persistence of pain as well as misprocessing of sensory information in the spinal cord and supraspinal structures. Much of the current understanding of pain aetiology and identification of drug targets derives from studies of the consequences of peripheral nerve injury in rodent models. Although a vast amount of information has been forthcoming, the translation of this information into the clinical arena has been minimal. Few, if any, major therapeutic approaches have appeared since the mid 1990's. This may reflect failure to recognise differences in pain processing in males vs. females, differences in cellular responses to different types of injury and differences in pain processing in humans vs. animals. Basic science and clinical approaches which seek to bridge this knowledge gap include better assessment of pain in animal models, use of pain models which better emulate human disease, and stratification of human pain phenotypes according to quantitative assessment of signs and symptoms of disease. This can lead to more personalized and effective treatments for individual patients. Significance statement: There is an urgent need to find new treatments for neuropathic pain. Although classical animal models have revealed essential features of pain aetiology such as peripheral and central sensitization and some of the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved, they do not adequately model the multiplicity of disease states or injuries that may bring forth neuropathic pain in the clinic. This review seeks to integrate information from the multiplicity of disciplines that seek to understand neuropathic pain; including immunology, cell biology, electrophysiology and biophysics, anatomy, cell biology, neurology, molecular biology, pharmacology and behavioral science. Beyond this, it underlines ongoing refinements in basic science and clinical practice that will engender improved approaches to pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter A. Smith
- Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute and Department of Pharmacology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada
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30
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Bohic M, Pattison LA, Jhumka ZA, Rossi H, Thackray JK, Ricci M, Mossazghi N, Foster W, Ogundare S, Twomey CR, Hilton H, Arnold J, Tischfield MA, Yttri EA, St John Smith E, Abdus-Saboor I, Abraira VE. Mapping the neuroethological signatures of pain, analgesia, and recovery in mice. Neuron 2023; 111:2811-2830.e8. [PMID: 37442132 PMCID: PMC10697150 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2021] [Revised: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Ongoing pain is driven by the activation and modulation of pain-sensing neurons, affecting physiology, motor function, and motivation to engage in certain behaviors. The complexity of the pain state has evaded a comprehensive definition, especially in non-verbal animals. Here, in mice, we used site-specific electrophysiology to define key time points corresponding to peripheral sensitivity in acute paw inflammation and chronic knee pain models. Using supervised and unsupervised machine learning tools, we uncovered sensory-evoked coping postures unique to each model. Through 3D pose analytics, we identified movement sequences that robustly represent different pain states and found that commonly used analgesics do not return an animal's behavior to a pre-injury state. Instead, these analgesics induce a novel set of spontaneous behaviors that are maintained even after resolution of evoked pain behaviors. Together, these findings reveal previously unidentified neuroethological signatures of pain and analgesia at heightened pain states and during recovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manon Bohic
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Luke A Pattison
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Z Anissa Jhumka
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Heather Rossi
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua K Thackray
- Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Tourette International Collaborative Genetics Study (TIC Genetics), Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Matthew Ricci
- Data Science Initiative, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA; School of Computer Science and Engineering, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Nahom Mossazghi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - William Foster
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Simon Ogundare
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Colin R Twomey
- Department of Biology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Helen Hilton
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Justin Arnold
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA
| | - Max A Tischfield
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Child Health Institute of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA; Human Genetics Institute of New Jersey, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; Tourette International Collaborative Genetics Study (TIC Genetics), Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Eric A Yttri
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Biological Sciences, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | | | - Ishmail Abdus-Saboor
- Zuckerman Mind Brain Behavior Institute and Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Victoria E Abraira
- Cell Biology and Neuroscience Department, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA; W.M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers University, The State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA.
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31
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Kavaliers M, Wah DTO, Bishnoi IR, Ossenkopp KP, Choleris E. Disgusted snails, oxytocin, and the avoidance of infection threat. Horm Behav 2023; 155:105424. [PMID: 37678092 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2023.105424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/09/2023]
Abstract
Disgust is considered to be a fundamental affective state associated with triggering the behavioral avoidance of infection and parasite/pathogen threat. In humans, and other vertebrates, disgust affects how individuals interact with, and respond to, parasites, pathogens and potentially infected conspecifics and their sensory cues. Here we show that the land snail, Cepaea nemoralis, displays a similar "disgust-like" state eliciting behavioral avoidance responses to the mucus associated cues of infected and potentially infected snails. Brief exposure to the mucus of snails treated with the Gram-negative bacterial endotoxin, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), elicited dose-related behavioral avoidance, including acute antinociceptive responses, similar to those expressed by mammals. In addition, exposure to the mucus cues of LPS treated snails led to a subsequent avoidance of unfamiliar individuals, paralleling the recognition of and avoidance responses exhibited by vertebrates exposed to potential pathogen risk. Further, the avoidance of, and antinociceptive responses to, the mucus of LPS treated snails were attenuated in a dose-related manner by the oxytocin (OT) receptor antagonist, L-368,899. This supports the involvement of OT and OT receptor homologs in the expression of infection avoidance, and consistent with the roles of OT in the modulation of responses to salient social and infection threats by rodents and other vertebrates. These findings with land snails are indicative of evolutionarily conserved disgust-like states associated with OT/OT receptor homolog modulated behavioral avoidance responses to infection and pathogen threat.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Kavaliers
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada; Graduate Program in Neuroscience University of Western Ontario, London, Canada; Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada.
| | - Deanne T O Wah
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Indra R Bishnoi
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada; Graduate Program in Neuroscience University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Klaus-Peter Ossenkopp
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada; Graduate Program in Neuroscience University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
| | - Elena Choleris
- Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Program, University of Guelph, Guelph, Canada
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32
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Li Y, Uhelski ML, North RY, Mwirigi JM, Tatsui CE, Cata JP, Corrales G, Price TJ, Dougherty PM. MNK inhibitor eFT508 (Tomivosertib) suppresses ectopic activity in human dorsal root ganglion neurons from dermatomes with radicular neuropathic pain. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.06.13.544811. [PMID: 37398249 PMCID: PMC10312735 DOI: 10.1101/2023.06.13.544811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Spontaneous activity in dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons is a key driver of neuropathic pain in preclinical models and in patients suffering from this largely untreated disease. While many intracellular signaling mechanisms have been examined in preclinical models that drive this spontaneous activity (SA), none of these have been tested directly on spontaneously active human nociceptors. Using cultured DRG neurons recovered during thoracic vertebrectomy surgeries, we show that inhibition of mitogen activated protein kinase interacting kinase (MNK) with eFT508 (25 nM) reverses SA in human sensory neurons associated with painful dermatomes. MNK inhibition in spontaneously active nociceptors decreased action potential amplitude and produced alterations in the magnitude of afterhyperpolarizing currents suggesting modification of Na+ and K+ channel activity downstream of MNK inhibition. The effects of MNK inhibition on SA took minutes to emerge and were reversible over time with eFT508 washout. MNK inhibition with eFT508 led to a profound loss of eIF4E Serine 209 phosphorylation, a specific target of the kinase, within 2 min of drug treatment, consistent with the rapid action of the drug on SA in electrophysiology experiments. Our results create a compelling case for the future testing of MNK inhibitors in clinical trials for neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
| | - Megan L. Uhelski
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
| | - Robert Y. North
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
| | - Juliet M. Mwirigi
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, Texas, 75080
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, Texas, 75080
| | - Claudio E. Tatsui
- Department of Neurosurgery, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
| | - Juan P. Cata
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
| | - German Corrales
- Department of Anesthesiology & Perioperative Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
| | - Theodore J. Price
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, Texas, 75080
- Center for Advanced Pain Studies, The University of Texas at Dallas, 800 W Campbell Rd, Richardson, Texas, 75080
| | - Patrick M. Dougherty
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas, USA, 77030
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33
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Calderon-Rivera A, Gomez K, Loya-López S, Wijeratne EK, Stratton H, Tang C, Duran P, Masterson K, Alsbiei O, Gunatilaka AL, Khanna R. Betulinic acid analogs inhibit N- and T-type voltage-gated calcium channels to attenuate nerve-injury associated neuropathic and formalin models of pain. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2023; 13:100116. [PMID: 36687466 PMCID: PMC9853350 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2023.100116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Over the past three decades, there has been a significant growth in the use of natural products, with approximately 80% of individuals using them for some aspect of primary healthcare. Our laboratories have identified and studied natural compounds with analgesic effects from dry land plants or their associated fungus during the past ten years. Here, we isolated and characterized thirteen betulin analogs and fifteen betulinic acid analogs for their capacity to prevent calcium influx brought on by depolarization in sensory neurons. The in vitro inhibition of voltage-gated calcium channels by the top drugs was then assessed using whole cell patch clamp electrophysiology. In vivo experiments, conducted at two sites, evaluated the best compound in acute and tonic, neuropathic, inflammatory, post-operative and visceral models of pain. We found that the betulinic acid analog 8 inhibited calcium influx in rat dorsal root ganglion neurons by inhibiting N- (CaV2.2) and T- (CaV3) type voltage-gated calcium channels. Moreover, intrathecal delivery of analog 8 had analgesic activity in both spared nerve injury model of neuropathic pain and acute and tonic pain induced by formalin. The results presented herein highlight the potential antinociceptive properties of betulinic acid analog 8 and set the stage for the development of novel non-opioid pain therapeutics based on the triterpenoid scaffold of betulinic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Calderon-Rivera
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kimberly Gomez
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Santiago Loya-López
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - E.M. Kithsiri Wijeratne
- Natural Products Center, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Harrison Stratton
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Cheng Tang
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Paz Duran
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Kyleigh Masterson
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - Omar Alsbiei
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
| | - A.A. Leslie Gunatilaka
- Natural Products Center, School of Natural Resources and the Environment, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, The University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, United States
| | - Rajesh Khanna
- Department of Molecular Pathobiology, College of Dentistry, New York University, New York, NY, United States
- NYU Pain Research Center, New York University, New York, NY, United States
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