PGI2-induced activation and sensitization of articular mechanonociceptors

Graham J. Birrell, Daniel S. McQueen, Ainsley Iggo, Robert A. Coleman, Blair D. Grubb

    Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

    85 Citations (Scopus)

    Abstract

    The effects of PGE2, PGI2 and the stable PGI2 analogue cicaprost on the afferent discharge of ankle joint mechanonociceptors were studied in the anaesthetized rat. Close-arterial injection of PGI2 (0.01-0.1 μg) or cicaprost (0.05-5 μg) caused both sensitization to mechanical stimulation and excitation of the majority of mechanonociceptors, whereas PGE2 (0.03-3 μg) had only weak effects on a small number of nociceptive units. These results suggest the existence of specific PGI2 sensitive receptors (IP receptors) on rat sensory afferent nerves, and support the hypothesis that in the rat endogenous PGI2 plays an important role in the lowering of nociceptive thresholds in inflamed joints.

    Original languageEnglish
    Pages (from-to)5-8
    Number of pages4
    JournalNeuroscience Letters
    Volume124
    Issue number1
    DOIs
    Publication statusPublished - 11 Mar 1991

    Keywords

    • Hyperalgesia
    • Inflammation
    • Joint
    • Nociceptor
    • Prostacyclin
    • Rat

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • General Neuroscience

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