Synaptic Plasticity in Pain

Primary sensory neurons respond to peripheral stimulation and project to the spinal cord. Specifically, the population of neurons which respond to damaging stimuli terminate in the superficial layers of the dorsal horn. Therefore, the dorsal horns constitute the first relay site for nociceptive fibre terminals which make synaptic contacts with second order neurons. It has recently become clear that the strength of this first pain synapse is plastic and modifiable by several modulators, including neuronal and non-neuronal regulators, and studies on the fundamental processes regulating the plasticity of the first pain synapse have resulted in the identification of new targets for the treatment of chronic pain. This book will be of interest to a wide readership in the pain field.

• cannabinoid
• dorsal horn
• glutamate
• nervous system
• neurons
• neuropathic
• opioid
• receptor
• spinal chord
• spinal mechanisms

From the reviews:

“This book, based on the concept that the ‘first sensory synapse between the central terminals of primary sensory neurons and dorsal horn neurons in the spinal cord is plastic and modifiable,’ centers around the concept of pain … . intended for all individuals interested in pain research, which would include PhD students, postdoctoral scientists, and academics. … drug discovery teams in industry would also find this of interest. … the book will serve an important role in the evolution and understanding of pain medicine.” (Joseph I. Sirven, Doody’s Review Service, April, 2010)

About the Author:

Dr. Marzia Malcangio holds a bachelors' degree in pharmaceutical chemistry and a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Florence, Italy. She spent most of her active scientific life in London UK, establishing an internationally renowned laboratory devoted to the biology of spinal cord mechanisms underlying chronic pain. Her current work explores novel approaches for targeting neuropathic and arthritic pain unveiling, and the involvement of microglia and the mechanisms governing microglial-neuronal communication. Dr Malcangio lives in London with her husband and two sons.

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