Nerve Growth Factor and Pain

Nerve growth factor (NGF) has a key role not only in the development of sensory and autonomic neurons, but also in the processes of nociception. Several central and peripheral mechanisms have been postulated as the basis of effects of NGF in nociceptive pathways. It has been implicated both in inflammatory and neuropathic pain mechanisms and strategies against NGF, its receptors, and down-stream intracellular signalling activated by this neurotrophin (NT) have been proposed for the treatment of these pathological conditions. This book examines recent evidence of the involvement of NGF in painful diseases and suggests the potential usefulness of anti-NGF strategies as novel analgesics for these disabling pathological conditions.