Blockade of PDGFR-β activation eliminates morphine analgesic tolerance.

Wang, Yan; Barker, Katherine; Shi, Shanping; Diaz, Miguel; Mo, Bing; Gutstein, Howard B · Nat Med · 2012

basic_science · Level V

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Abstract

For centuries, opioid drugs have been the mainstay of chronic pain treatment. However, over time analgesic tolerance develops, leaving few treatment options. Here we show that platelet-derived growth factor receptor-β (PDGFR-β)-mediated signaling plays a key role in morphine tolerance. PDGFR-β inhibition selectively eliminates morphine tolerance in rats. PDGFR-β inhibitors are widely used and well tolerated, suggesting that clinical translation of our findings could reduce the suffering endured by individuals with intractable pain.

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