Role of Neurotrophins in Orofacial Pain Modulation: A Review of the Latest Discoveries

Abstract

Orofacial pain represents a multidisciplinary biomedical challenge involving basic and clinical research for which no satisfactory solution has been found. In this regard, trigeminal pain is described as one of the worst pains perceived, leaving the patient with no hope for the future. The aim of this review is to evaluate the latest discoveries on the involvement of neurotrophins in orofacial nociception, describing their role and expression in peripheral tissues, trigeminal ganglion, and trigeminal nucleus considering their double nature as “supporters” of the nervous system and as “promoters” of nociceptive transmission. In order to scan recent literature (last ten years), three independent researchers referred to databases PubMed, Embase, Google Scholar, Scopus, and Web of Science to find original research articles and clinical trials. The researchers selected 33 papers: 29 original research articles and 4 clinical trials. The results obtained by the screening of the selected articles show an interesting trend, in which the precise modulation of neurotrophin signaling could switch neurotrophins from being a “promoter” of pain to their beneficial neurotrophic role of supporting the nerves in their recovery, especially when a structural alteration is present, as in neuropathic pain. In conclusion, neurotrophins could be interesting targets for orofacial pain modulation but more studies are necessary to clarify their role for future application in clinical practice.

Advancements in Understanding and Classifying Chronic Orofacial Pain: Key Insights from Biopsychosocial Models and International Classifications (ICHD-3, ICD-11, ICOP)

“…However, the strengths of this study include a comprehensive examination of the various types of COFP, their underlying mechanisms, and their impact on patients' quality of life through an in-depth analysis of current classification systems [145,146]. However, the manuscript also emphasizes the significance of using the biopsychosocial model to understand pain perception and integrating biological, psychological, and social dimensions in pain management, which provide valuable insights for both clinicians and researchers [147].…”

Neuroprotective Effect of Nosustrophine in a 3xTg Mouse Model of Alzheimer’s Disease

“…It is well known that neurotrophic drugs promote the maturation and growth of neurons. Different neuronal populations, according to the “neurotrophic hypothesis,” depend on these substances for normal survival, but their concentrations are insufficient to support all of the neurons produced during the early stages of development [ 31 , 32 ]. Since the refined pig brain extract has historically been thought of as a food supplement to enhance brain function, its many components, which contain all these growth-promoting and neurotrophic elements identified, may elicit therapeutic action against AD pathology [ 33 , 34 ].…”