Antigen-specific immune mechanisms of neuronal hyperexcitability and chronic pain

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Description (provided by applicant): A novel mechanism of chronic pain will be explored: the excitatory effects of the immunoglobulin G (IgG) immune complex on primary sensory afferents via neuronal Fc gamma receptor I (Fc3RI). Chronic pain often accompanies autoimmune, allergic or infectious diseases involving antigen-specific immune responses in the peripheral tissue, nerve or sensory ganglia though the underlying mechanisms are largely unknown. A common feature among these disorders is the elevated level of antigen-specific IgG in the serum and the presence of IgG immune complex in the affected tissue. Recently it was discovered that a subpopulation of dorsal root ganglion neurons with nociceptive properties expressed the high-affinity IgG receptor, Fc3RI and could be directly activated by IgG immune complex. Preliminary data indicate that cutaneous hyperalgesia in skin challenged with antigen in previously immunized rats long outlasts signs of acute inflammation. I propose to explore the effects of a specific foreign antigen, applied to the skin or to the spinal ganglia, in immunized vs. unimmunized rats, on the excitability and neurochemical properties of functionally identified nociceptive primary sensory neurons in relation to Fc3RI and pain-related behaviors. This study will reveal a novel mechanism of chronic pain driven by the antigen-specific immune response via the effects of IgG immune complex on the Fc receptors expressed in primary sensory neurons. It will provide potentially new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of chronic pain. PUBLIC HEALTH RELEVANCE: This study will reveal a novel mechanism of chronic pain driven by the antigen-specific immune response via the effects of IgG immune complex on the Fc receptors expressed in primary sensory neurons. It will provide potentially new therapeutic strategies in the treatment of chronic pain.