Abstract
Identification of potential therapeutic targets is needed for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) pain, the most common form of orofacial pain, because current treatments lack efficacy. Considering TMD pain is critically mediated by the trigeminal ganglion (TG) sensory neurons, functional blockade of nociceptive neurons in the TG may provide an effective approach for mitigating pain associated with TMD. We have previously shown that TRPV4, a polymodally-activated ion channel, is expressed in TG nociceptive neurons. Yet, it remains unexplored whether functional silencing of TRPV4-expressing TG neurons attenuates TMD pain. In this study, we demonstrated that co-application of a positively charged, membrane-impermeable lidocaine derivative QX-314 with the TRPV4 selective agonist GSK101 suppressed the excitability of TG neurons. Moreover, co-administration of QX-314 and GSK101 into the TG significantly attenuated pain in mouse models of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) inflammation and masseter muscle injury. Collectively, these results suggest TRPV4-expressing TG neurons represent a potential target for TMD pain.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: 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.
