Glial Cells Dysfunction and Chronic Pain

Abstract

Chronic pain is a pathological health condition caused by the imbalance between inhibitory and excitatory signaling pain pathways. This clinical problem affects about 30% of adults worldwide, and current treatments are insufficient with side effects. The mechanisms underlying this disease were thought to be a result of neuronal dysfunction, however, several animal studies clearly showed that non-neuronal cells (glial cells), primarily microglia and astrocytes, and their interaction with neurons, had a key role in pain persistence. A long-lasting state of activated glia turns to a pathological element causing a painful sensation. This chapter aims to elucidate glial dysfunction by shedding light on peripheral and central glial cells involved in the pathogenesis of chronic pain.