Activation of neurotrophins in lumbar dorsal root probably contributes to neuropathic pain after spinal nerve ligation

Abstract

Objective(s): Neurotrophins (NTs) exert various effects on neuronal system. Growing evidence indicates that NTs are involved in the pathophysiology of neuropathic pain. However, the exact role of these proteins in modulating nociceptive signaling requires being defined. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of spinal nerve ligation (SNL) on NTs activation in the lumbar dorsal root. Materials and Methods: Ten male Wistar rats were ran­domly assigned to two groups: tight ligation of the L5 spinal nerve (SNL: n=5) and Sham (n=5). In order to produce neuropathic pain, the L5 spinal nerve was tightly ligated (SNL). Then, allodynia and hyperalgesia tests were conducted weekly. After 4 weeks, tissue samples were taken from the two groups for laboratory evaluations. Here, Real-Time PCR quantity method was used for measuring NTs gene expression levels. Results: SNL resulted in a significant weight loss in the soleus muscle (P

Keywords

• Allodynia
• Hyperalgesia
• Neuropathic pain
• Neurotrophins
• Spinal nerve ligation