Driving effect of BDNF in the spinal dorsal horn on neuropathic pain.

• BDNF in the spinal dorsal horn are closely connected with neuropathic pain. • In physiological conditions, BDNF is an important regulator of neuronal development, synaptic transmission, and cellular and synaptic plasticity. • In pathological conditions, BDNF in the spinal dorsal horn may change the CNS from an adaptive state to an unadaptive state. • Elucidate the mechanism of BDNF in spinal dorsal horn and neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain (NP) is caused by direct or indirect damage to the nervous system and is a common symptom of many diseases. The mechanisms underlying the onset and persistence of NP are unclear. Therefore, research concerning these mechanisms has become an important focus in the medical field. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a member of the neurotrophic factor family of signaling molecules. BDNF is an important regulator of neuronal development, synaptic transmission, and cellular and synaptic plasticity, which are essential for nerve maintenance and repair. However, BDNF is upregulated in the spinal dorsal horn and can promote NP by activating glial cells, reducing inhibitory functions and enhancing excitement after nociceptive stimulation. This review considers the relationship between NP and BDNF signaling in the spinal dorsal horn and discusses potentially related pathological mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]