Voltage-Gated Ion Channels in the PNS: Novel Therapies for Neuropathic Pain?

TitleVoltage-Gated Ion Channels in the PNS: Novel Therapies for Neuropathic Pain?
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2016
AuthorsTibbs GR, Posson DJ, Goldstein PA
JournalTrends Pharmacol Sci
Volume37
Issue7
Pagination522-42
Date Published2016 Jul
ISSN1873-3735
Abstract

Neuropathic pain arises from injury to the nervous system. Conditions associated with neuropathic pain are diverse, and lesions and/or pathological changes in the central nervous system (CNS) or peripheral nervous system (PNS) can frequently, but not always, be identified. It is difficult to treat, with patients often on multiple, different classes of medications, all with appreciable adverse side effect profiles. Consequently, there is a pressing need for the development of new medications. The development of such therapeutics is predicated on a clear understanding of the relevant molecular and cellular processes that contribute to the development, and maintenance, of the neuropathic pain state. One proposed mechanism thought to contribute to the ontogeny of neuropathic pain is altered expression, trafficking, and functioning of ion channels expressed by primary sensory neurons. Here, we will focus on three voltage-gated ion channel families, CaV, HCN, and NaV, first reviewing the preclinical data and then the human data where it exists.

DOI10.1016/j.tips.2016.05.002
Alternate JournalTrends Pharmacol. Sci.
PubMed ID27233519