Early investigations into the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain were focused primarily on effects of peripheral nerve injury on neurons in the pain processing pathway, including modifications in expression patterns of receptors, ion channels, neurotransmitters, alterations in synaptic connectivity and cell death. While these changes in the physiology of the neural pain processing pathway are important to the etiology of neuropathic pain, researchers now agree there is more to the story.
This eBook focuses on 5 predominant microglial activation pathways identified by their major ligand or receptor.
- TLR4
- P2X4
- INF-g & CB2
- MCP-1
- Fractalkine
These 5 mechanisms have emerged as exciting new focal points for assessing opportunities for the future development of pharmacotherapies, gene therapies or cell-based therapies for neuropathic pain patients.