CircAnks1a in the spinal cord regulates hypersensitivity in a rodent model of neuropathic pain

Nature Communications, 2019 · DOI: 10.1038/s41467-019-12049-0 · Published: September 13, 2019

Simple Explanation

This study investigates the role of circAnks1a, a circular RNA, in neuropathic pain using a rodent model. The researchers found that nerve injury increases circAnks1a expression in spinal cord neurons. They demonstrated that reducing circAnks1a levels alleviates pain-like behavior. CircAnks1a influences the activity of transcription factor YBX1, affecting the expression of VEGFB, a protein involved in nerve excitability. The study suggests that circAnks1a and VEGFB could be potential targets for neuropathic pain treatment. Targeting this pathway could help regulate nerve excitability and alleviate pain.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Male Sprague–Dawley rats and C57BL/6 mice

Evidence Level

Level III, Experimental study

Key Findings

1
Spinal nerve ligation increases circAnks1a expression in dorsal horn neurons.
2
Downregulation of circAnks1a attenuates pain-like behavior induced by nerve injury.
3
CircAnks1a promotes YBX1 translocation to the nucleus and increases VEGFB expression.

Research Summary

This study identifies circAnks1a as a key regulator in neuropathic pain, showing its expression is increased following nerve injury in a rodent model. Reducing circAnks1a levels alleviates pain-like behaviors. CircAnks1a influences neuropathic pain by promoting YBX1 translocation and increasing VEGFB expression. Cytoplasmic circAnks1a also serves as a miRNA sponge for miR-324-3p, further regulating VEGFB expression. These findings suggest a novel circAnks1a/VEGFB pathway that can be targeted for effective neuropathic pain treatment. Targeting this pathway could regulate neuronal excitability and alleviate pain induced by nerve injury.

Practical Implications

Therapeutic Target Identification

CircAnks1a and VEGFB are identified as potential therapeutic targets for neuropathic pain.

Novel Pathway Discovery

The study reveals a novel circAnks1a/VEGFB pathway that contributes to central sensitization and pain behavior induced by nerve injury.

Treatment Development

The findings can be used for the development of effective treatments for neuropathic pain by targeting the circAnks1a/VEGFB pathway.

Study Limitations

1
The study is limited to a rodent model, and findings may not directly translate to humans.
2
The precise mechanisms of circAnks1a interaction with other molecules and signaling pathways require further investigation.
3
Long-term effects of targeting circAnks1a need to be evaluated.

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