Mechanism and therapeutic effectiveness of nerve growth factor in osteoarthritis pain

Abstract

Xiushuai Shang, Zhaofei Wang, Hairong Tao Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Orthopedic Implant, Shanghai Ninth People’s Hospital, Shanghai JiaoTong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of articular joint arthritis and a cause of significant morbidity. In this review, we present the role of nerve growth factor (NGF) in pain generation, relationship between NGF and OA pain, and pathogenic factors (interleukin-1β, transforming growth factor-β1, mechanical loading, and adipokines) involved in OA development. Since NGF blocking is an efficient way to inhibit OA-associated pain, we summarize four categories of drugs that target NGF/tropomyosin receptor kinase A (TrkA) signaling. In addition, we discuss the future of NGF/TrkA antagonists and underline their potential for use in OA pain relief. A better understanding of the causes and treatment of OA will facilitate the development of more effective methods of OA pain management. Keywords: osteoarthritis, pain, nerve growth factor, TRPV1, TrkA 

Keywords

• Osteoarthritis
• Pain
• Nerve Growth Factor