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New lead in the war on neuropathic pain

Neuropathic pain is one type of chronic pain problem.  The pain is the result of damage to the actual nervous system. Most who experience this type of pain describe it as "pins and needles", burning, stinging, "on fire" or similar.  It must be really annoying to suffer from this, be it a result of diabetic neuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia, or any other neuropathic disorder.  I can't even begin to imagine what it feels like.

Shingles (Herpes Zoster) rash on chest


However, I have some good news about this topic. I am here to tell you some exciting news about some research  developments in this field.  Recently UC Davis researchers announced that they have discovered a key mechanism in neuropathic pain syndromes. They are saying that a biological process known as endoplasmic reticular stress, or ER stress for short, is a key driver of neuropathic pain.

Why is it good news? Because now that this mechanism has been identified, a search for agents/methods to control this process can begin. Most likely the remedy will be a medication or a medication combination but we'll have to revisit this topic again in future to see!

You can read the press release for yourself by clicking here.


Sources: UCDavis;Wikimedia
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