Leptin is essential for spinal microglial activation and neuropathic pain after preganglionic cervical root avulsion

Publication date: Available online 16 August 2017 Source:Life Sciences Author(s): Kai-Ting Chang, Yi-Lo Lin, Chi-Te Lin, Chen-Jei Hong, May-Jywan Tsai, Wen-Cheng Huang, Yang-Hsin Shih, Yi-Yen Lee, Henrich Cheng, Ming-Chao Huang Aims Preganglionic cervical root avulsion (PCRA) affects both the peripheral and central nervous systems and is often associated with neuropathic pain. Unlike peripheral nerve injuries (PNI), central lesions caused by disruption of cervical roots from the spinal cord following PCRA contribute to the generation of neuropathic pain. Leptin is involved in the development of neuropathic pain after PNI by affecting neurons. However, whether leptin is involved in microglial activation leading to neuropathic pain after PCRA is unknown. Main methods Preganglionic avulsion of the left 6th–8th cervical roots was performed in C57B/6J mice and leptin-deficient mice. A leptin antagonist or leptin was administered to C57B/6J mice and leptin-deficient mice after injury, respectively. The expression pattern of spinal microglia was examined by immunofluorescent staining. Von Frey filaments were used to test pain sensitivity. Key findings Leptin is essential for the development of neuropathic pain after PCRA. Allodynia was absent in the leptin-deficient mice and the mice administered the leptin antagonist. We also found that leptin deficiency or the administration of its antagonist inhibited the development of microgliosis in the dorsal horn and brainste...
Source: Life Sciences - Category: Biology Source Type: research