Nerve growth factor acts with the beta 2-adrenoceptor to induce spontaneous nociceptive behavior during temporomandibular joint inflammatory hyperalgesia

Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate whether the injection of nerve growth factor induces spontaneous nociceptive behavior in the intact or sensitized temporomandibular joint (TMJ) of rats. Main methods: NGF was injected into the TMJ 1 h after the TMJ injection of saline or carrageenan and the spontaneous nociceptive behavior was quantified. The mechanism involved in this phenomenon was investigated by the injection of NGF into the carrageenan-sensitized TMJ in the presence of indomethacin or of beta-adrenergic antagonists. Key findings: NGF injected into the TMJ sensitized by a prior TMJ injection of carrageenan but not into the intact TMJ induced a significant nociceptive behavior. Co-injection of the non-specific Trk receptor antagonist k252A with NGF 1 h after the TMJ injection of carrageenan significantly reduced NGF-induced spontaneous nociception supporting the Trk receptor activation in this nociceptive effect. Blockade of prostaglandin synthesis by indomethacin before the TMJ injection of carrageenan did not reduce NGF-induced nociception. Co-administration of carrageenan with the beta 2-adrenoceptor antagonist ICI 118.55 but not with the beta(1)-adrenoceptor antagonist atenolol significantly reduced NGF-induced nociception. The injection of NGF the TMJ sensitized by a previous TMJ injection of epinephrine also induced nociceptive behavior. Significance: Taken together, these results indicate that NGF can induce TMJ nociception during TMJ inflammation. Moreover, the expression of this nociceptive response seems to depend on the synergic activity of NGF and sympathetic amines released during TMJ inflammation acting on beta 2-adrenergic receptors. (C) 2008 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.8323-24780785Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP)Fundação de Amparo à Pesquisa do Estado de São Paulo (FAPESP