'Brake' Mechanism Suppressing Chronic Pain in the Brain Discovered

An international study has illuminated the mechanism of chronic neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage in the brain. Researchers from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, USA, have discovered a new mechanism that blocks pain transmission in the 'locus coeruleus' region, known as the brain's center for stress and alertness.

Experiments conducted on mice revealed that nerve damage excessively stimulates cells in this region, perpetuating chronic pain. The researchers found that when 'mu-opioid' receptors on the surface of brain cells become dysfunctional, pain and touch sensitivity increase. It was noted that reactivating these same receptors completely reversed the symptoms of chronic pain.

'COULD ELIMINATE THE ADDICTION RISK OF PAINKILLERS'

Highlighting that millions suffer from chronic neuropathic pain due to diabetes, infection, or nerve compression and that current treatments are inadequate, the study's lead author, Associate Professor Dr. Jordan McCall, stated, “Traditional opioids like morphine and fentanyl spread throughout the body, leading to serious addiction and tolerance issues. Understanding that these receptors in the brain function as gatekeepers could enable the development of new-generation treatments that are directly targeted and free of side effects.”

Researchers are working on developing new molecular therapies that focus on receptors in the 'locus coeruleus' region without affecting the overall functioning of the nervous system. According to experts, this approach could pave the way for more effective and safer treatments in chronic pain management.