The Role of N-Methyl D-Aspartate Receptors on Pain Transmission

Aim : In the experimental studies, NMDA (N-methyl-D-aspartate) receptors play important role in the mechanism of action among the drugs used for the treatment of pain. The NMDA receptors in the dorsal horn of spinal cord is essential for central sensitization and the central facilitation of pain transmission produced by peripheral injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate the contributions of peripheral NMDA receptor agonist and antagonists in peripheral pain transmission. Material-Method : In the present study, N methyl aspartic acid (NMDA) and antagonist (MK-801) were administered intraplantarily to investigate withdrawal effects, the dose and time dependent latency using thermal plantar test method in rats. Results : MK-801 caused dose-dependent thermal anti-nociceptive effects, whereas NMDA led to reduction in the thermal nociceptive latency and hyperalgesia. Conclusion : Peripheral NMDA receptors may play a dominant role in the transmission of pain information.