Accumulation of Kv7.2 channels in putative ectopic transduction zones of mice nerve-end neuromas.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Modulation of M-type currents has been proposed as a new strategy for the treatment of neuropathic pain due to their role in regulating neuronal excitability. Using electrophysiological techniques we showed previously that the opening of Kv7 channels with retigabine, blocked ectopic discharges from axotomized fibers but did not alter transduction at intact skin afferents. We hypothesized that after nerve damage, accumulation of Kv7 channels in afferent fibers may increase M-type currents which then acquired a more important role at regulating fiber excitability.

Findings

In this study, we used an immunohistochemical approach to examine patterns of expression of Kv7.2 channels in afferent fibers after axotomy and compared them to patterns of expression of voltage g

SUBMITTER: Roza C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3163195 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature