ABSTRACT
In this chapter we will review the current understanding of cytokines in the pathogenesis of pain, and especially neuropathic pain, based on basic science research with rodent models of peripheral nerve injury. This knowledge has expanded understanding of the role of cytokines in neural dysfunction and provided an additional rationale for therapeutic use of anti-cytokine agents in human painful degenerative diseases. Herein, we review recent data to support the concept that the proinammatory cytokine-driven processes of degeneration are at the basis of the neuropathic pain condition, and that anti-cytokine therapy represents a promising approach to treating human neuropathic pain states. Additionally, we suggest that the relationship between cytokines and matrix metalloproteinases can be therapeutically exploited.
