The ERK 1 and 2 Pathway in the Nervous System: From Basic Aspects to Possible Clinical Applications in Pain and Visceral Dysfunction
2007

The ERK 1 and 2 Pathway in the Nervous System

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Cruz Célia D, Cruz Francisco

Primary Institution: University of Porto, Portugal

Hypothesis

The ERK pathway may be a future therapeutic target to treat pain and other complications arising from chronic pain or neuronal injury.

Conclusion

The ERK pathway plays a crucial role in pain perception and could be targeted for therapeutic interventions.

Supporting Evidence

  • ERK phosphorylation is important in neuroplastic events related to pain.
  • ERK contributes to allodynia and hyperalgesia caused by spinal cord injury.
  • ERK pathway activation is linked to chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain.
  • Blocking ERK can reduce pain hypersensitivity in various models.

Takeaway

The ERK pathway helps our body feel pain, and scientists think that blocking it could help people who hurt a lot.

Methodology

This review discusses the role of the ERK pathway in pain and visceral reflex control based on various studies.

Limitations

The review does not provide original experimental data but summarizes existing literature.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.2174/157015907782793630

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