Elucidation of the mechanism of chronic pain by targeting glial cells in the peripheral nervous system

2023 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 21K08988
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Review Section: Basic Section 55050:Anesthesiology-related
• Research Institution: Kanazawa University
• Principal Investigator: Okuda Hiroaki 金沢大学, 医学系, 准教授 (40453162)
• Project Period (FY): 2021-04-01 – 2024-03-31
• Keywords: 慢性痛 / 末梢神経系 / グリア / ヘッジホッグ

Outline of Final Research Achievements

We analyzed the relationship between peripheral glial cells and hyperalgesia using a mouse model of chronic pain. In response to sensory nerve injury, expression of SHH increased in peripheral glial cells, while hedgehog (Hh) receptors were localized in sensory neurons. Furthermore, in a chronic pain model, inhibiting Hh signals attenuated hyperalgesia, and conversely, activating Hh signals induced hyperalgesia in normal mice. It was suggested that the Hh signal is related to the interaction between peripheral glial cells and sensory neurons and that the Hh signal is involved in developing hyperalgesia.

Free Research Field

神経科学

Academic Significance and Societal Importance of the Research Achievements

神経障害時に末梢神経系グリア細胞が反応することが知られているが、痛みの慢性化に関与しているのかはいまだ不明な点が多く、その解明は慢性痛の治療に対して新たな視点を得られると考える。また、末梢神経系グリア細胞への介入は従来のオピオイドなど中枢神経系に作用する薬剤と異なり、副作用が少ない優れた治療薬開発の標的となりうると考えられる。