A role for the TTX-resistant sodium channel Nav 1.8 in NGF-induced hyperalgesia, but not neuropathic pain
The tetrodotoxin-resistant voltage-gated sodium channel Nav 1.8 is expressed only in
nociceptive sensory neurons. This channel has been proposed to contribute significantly to
the sensitization of primary sensory neurons after injury. We have studied the nociceptive
behaviours of mice carrying a null mutation in the Nav 1.8 gene (Nav 1.8−/−) in models of
peripheral inflammation as well as a model of neuropathic pain. The results from the present
studies reveal that Nav 1.8 is a necessary mediator of NGF-induced thermal hyperalgesia …
nociceptive sensory neurons. This channel has been proposed to contribute significantly to
the sensitization of primary sensory neurons after injury. We have studied the nociceptive
behaviours of mice carrying a null mutation in the Nav 1.8 gene (Nav 1.8−/−) in models of
peripheral inflammation as well as a model of neuropathic pain. The results from the present
studies reveal that Nav 1.8 is a necessary mediator of NGF-induced thermal hyperalgesia …