ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL, IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL STUDIES ON AN ANIMAL MODEL OF PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY INDICATE A PROMINENT ROLE OF Aβ SENSORY NEURONS IN NEUROPATHIC PAIN

Abstract

<p>Based on the concept that the tactile hypersensitivity and the central sensitization observed in animal models of peripheral neuropathy are maintained by peripheral drive from primary sensory neurons, the present project measured the changes in electrophysiological, immunohistochemical, and pharmacological properties of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons induced by a peripheral neuropathy. The aim of this study was to make a systematic survey and a unique understanding of changes that occur in primary sensory neurons that can sustain peripheral drive in this model. The data of this study indicate a prominent role of large diameter Aβ-fibers, including low threshold mechanoreceptors in peripheral neuropathy.</p>