Protease-Activated Receptors as Therapeutic Targets in Visceral Pain

Title:Protease-Activated Receptors as Therapeutic Targets in Visceral Pain

Volume: 11 Issue: 6

Author(s): Nicolas Cenac

Affiliation:

Keywords: Calcium channels, IBD, IBS, neuromediators, Protease, Pain, Inflammation, Protease activated receptor.

Abstract: The protease-activated receptors (PARs) play a pivotal role in inflammatory and nociceptive processes. PARs have raised considerable interest because of their capacity to regulate numerous aspects of viscera physiology and pathophysiology. The present article summarizes research on PARs and proteases as signalling molecules in visceral pain. In particular, experiments in animal models suggest that PAR₂ is important for visceral hypersensitivity. Moreover, endogenous PAR₂ agonists seem to be released by colonic tissue of patients suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, suggesting a role for this receptor in visceral pain perception. Thus, PARs, together with proteases that activate them, represent exciting targets for therapeutic intervention on visceral pain.

Cite this article as:

Cenac Nicolas, Protease-Activated Receptors as Therapeutic Targets in Visceral Pain, Current Neuropharmacology 2013; 11 (6) . https://dx.doi.org/10.2174/1570159X113119990039