Nerve Growth Factor and Pain Mechanisms

Annual Review of Neuroscience

Vol. 40:307-325 (Volume publication date July 2017)
First published as a Review in Advance on April 24, 2017
https://doi.org/10.1146/annurev-neuro-072116-031121

Abstract

Nerve growth factor (NGF) antagonism is on the verge of becoming a powerful analgesic treatment for numerous conditions, including osteoarthritis and lower back pain. This review summarizes the historical research, both fundamental and clinical, that led to our current understanding of NGF biology. We also discuss the surprising number of questions that remain about NGF expression patterns and NGF's various functions and interaction partners in relation to persistent pain and the potential side effects of anti-NGF therapy.

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