Pathophysiology and animal models of cancer-related painful peripheral neuropathy.
There are undoubtedly several causes of painful peripheral neuropathy in cancer patients. Some mechanisms are directly attributable to the tumor; others lie with the therapy, be it surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Several animal models have been developed to study the pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to neuropathic pain. These include inflammation-based models, nerve trauma-induced models, and chemotherapy-induced models of neuropathic pain. My colleagues and I recently identified abnormalities in mitochondrial structure and function in peripheral sensory fibers that are associated with neuropathic pain induced by common chemotherapeutic agents and that can be reversed by agents that enhance mitochondrial function. Our hope is that further identification and clarification of the pathophysiological mechanisms involved at the periphery will help us to develop new classes of medicines and treatment options.
Bennett
Gary J
GJ
Department of Anesthesia, McGill University, McIntyre Building, Room 1202, 3655 Promenade Sir William Osler, Montreal, H3G 1Y6 Quebec, Canada. gary.bennett@mcgill.ca
D000818:Animals; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000009:adverse effects; D006801:Humans; D006930:Hyperalgesia / Q000503:physiopathology; D007249:Inflammation / Q000503:physiopathology; D008928:Mitochondria / Q000187:drug effects; D023421:Models, Animal; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000503:physiopathology*; D009410:Nerve Degeneration; D009437:Neuralgia / Q000503:physiopathology*; D059348:Peripheral Nerve Injuries; D010525:Peripheral Nerves / Q000503:physiopathology; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha