Sodium Channel Expression in Keratinocytes: Implications for Neuropathic Pain

Frank L. Rice, PhD

Center for Neuropharmacology and Neuroscience
Albany Medical College
Albany, NY

Sodium channels are primary determinants of membrane excitability. Interestingly, recent evidence suggests that keratinocytes in the skin express voltage-gated sodium channels, with increased levels observed in such neuropathic pain conditions as complex regional pain syndrome type 1. Sodium channel expression appears to drive ATP release from keratinocytes in the epidermis, a process that may contribute to hyperactivity in small-fiber afferent nerve endings and the perpetuation of pain conditions. These finding have important implications for future diagnostic and treatment strategies. A symposium at the 2010 Annual Scientific Meeting of the American Pain Society reviewed some of the key discoveries that have contributed to the understanding of the roles of sodium channels in the transduction, transmission, perception, and modulation of pain.

References

Albrecht PJ, Rice FL. Role of small-fiber afferents in pain mechanisms with implications on diagnosis and treatment. Curr Pain Headache Rep. 2010 Apr 23. [Epub ahead of print]
Zhao P, Barr TP, Hou Q, et al. Voltage-gated sodium channel expression in rat and human epidermal keratinocytes: evidence for a role in pain. Pain. 2008;139(1):90-105.
Albrecht PJ, Hines S, Eisenberg E, et al. Pathologic alterations of cutaneous innervation and vasculature in affected limbs from patients with complex regional pain syndrome. Pain. 2006;120(3):244-66.

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