Abstract
Using a double-labeling technique, we evaluated the input of afferents immunoreactive for dynorphin peptide onto a population of lumbar spinal neurons contributing to the spinoparabrachial tract in rats with 1 inflamed hind paw. We found that the frequency and distribution with which dynorphin immunoreactive varicosities were in apposition to projection neurons varied according to neuron location. In particular, neurons in the superficial dorsal horn and neck of the dorsal horn receive a high degree of dynorphin input. We also determined that unilateral peripheral inflammation is associated with both an increase in the number of projection neurons receiving detectable DYN input and in the frequency of this input onto a given neuron, with the largest increase seen in the superficial dorsal horn. Since almost all superficial dorsal horn neurons contributing to the spinoparabrachial tract respond either exclusively or maximally to noxious stimulation, our data supports dynorphin's involvement in nociception.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.