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How does evaluate the contribution of spinal WDR neurons to neuropathic pain in rats?
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Homa Manaheji   , Shima Abtin |
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Abstract: (240 Views) |
Introduction: Neuropathic pain, characterised by aberrant sensory processing and chronic pain sensation, remains a significant clinical challenge. Spinal wide dynamic range (WDR) neurons play a crucial role in nociceptive processing and have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neuropathic pain. Here are some common approaches, such as behavioural assays, electrophysiological recordings, and pharmacological manipulation, to elucidate the role of spinal WDR neurons in neuropathic pain in rat models.
Methods and Materials: This study was conducted on adult male Wistar rats weighing 180-220 g. The sciatic nerve chronic constriction injury (CCI) and spinal nerve ligation (SNL) methods were used to induce neuropathic pain. Changes in neuropathic pain symptoms were assessed by measuring thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. Single-unit extracellular recordings were performed to identify and characterise WDR neurons. Rats were secured in a stereotaxic frame and fixed by two clamps to the exposed spinal cord segments. A laminectomy was performed to expose the lumbar enlargement of the spinal cord for recording. Tungsten microelectrode was derived vertically into the dorsal horn. Some selective agonists, antagonists and inhibitors were used in the pharmacological intervention to determine the influence of the drugs on pain responses.
Results: The results showed that in rats that underwent CCI and SNL, neuropathic pain symptoms developed on average on day 12th. In Wind-up and LTP recording, the evoked responses of the WDR neurons to different stimuli increased considerably. It was shown that the long-term excitability of the WDR neurons causes central sensitisation. Pharmacological intervention attenuated neuropathic pain and responsiveness of the WDR neurons in neuropathic pain.
Conclusion: By integrating electrophysiological recording, pharmacological interventions, and behavioral assessment, could gain a comprehensive understanding of the neural mechanisms underlying the neural mechanisms of neuropathic pain. These findings may pave the way for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting spinal WDR neurons to alleviate neuropathic pain.
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| Keywords: hyperalgesia, allodynia, spinal single unit recording, WDR neurons |
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Full-Text [PDF 317 kb]
(36 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Research |
Subject:
General
Received: 2024/01/21 | Accepted: 2023/08/1 | Published: 2023/08/1
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