Fundamental research

01 - 06 - 2017

The difficult fight against pain

The fight against pain is difficult. Scientists are looking for alternatives to opioids that can cause tolerance and dependence.

The NK1 receptors, present on the surface of the neurons, transmit the pain signal. But, surprisingly, blocking them doesn’t very effectively control pain.

Researchers have discovered how to block these receptors after their incorporation in the neuron (a normal process that follows their activation). This is effective in stopping pain in several animal models. Researchers expect clinical trials shortly.