Central sensitization of dorsal root potentials and dorsal root reflexes: An in vitro study in the mouse spinal cord.

ConclusionsOur findings suggest the existence of independent spinal circuits at the origin of PAD and DRRs. Inflammation modulates these circuits differentially, unveiling varied mechanisms of spinal sensitization. Thisin vitro approach provides an isolated model for the study of the mechanisms of central sensitization and for the performance of pharmacological assays with the purpose of identifying and testing novel antinociceptive targets.SignificanceSpinal circuits modulate activity of primary afferents acting on central terminals. Underin vitro conditions, dorsal roots show spontaneous activity in the form of depolarizations and action potentials. Our findings are consistent with the existence of several independent generator circuits. Experimental paw inflammation reduced mechanical withdrawal threshold and significantly increased the spontaneous activity of dorsal roots, which may be secondary to an enhanced output of spinal generators. This can be considered as a novel sign of central sensitization.

Source: European Journal of Pain - October 5, 2021 Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Jorge Vicente ‐Baz, Jose Antonio Lopez‐Garcia, Ivan Rivera‐Arconada Tags: ORIGINAL ARTICLE Source Type: research