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)
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