Adhwita Nair

The interaction between neurons and glial cells within the dorsal root ganglion and their contribution to opioid-induced hyperalgesia

Started Jan. 26, 2024

Abstract or project description

Amidst the synthetic opioid epidemic of the early 2000s emerged a lesser-known side effect, Opioid-Induced Hyperalgesia (OIH). Individuals consume opioids to attenuate pain. However, OIH is the paradoxical effect of an individual consuming opioids and instead experiencing increased pain sensitivity. OIH is so understudied its prevalence remains unknown by researchers, in efforts to determine possible causes and explanations, the research design was a comprehensive literature review. This review found links among glial cell activation, neuropeptides, and dorsal root ganglion (DRG), a hub of sensory neurons at the top of the spinal cord. In response to the stress of being under the influence of opioids, glial cells in the DRG activate. Glial cell activation can lead to the dysregulation of nociceptive neuropeptides in the DRG that contribute to an increased perception of pain. The findings demonstrate a mechanism by which neuropeptides and glial cells interact and contribute to pain development. In doing so, insights into potential therapeutic targets for OIH, other hyperalgesic conditions, and even chronic pain management can be extrapolated. Future research should focus on exploring these pathways in detail to develop novel, non-opioid pain treatments to end the devastating effects of OIH.