Introduction
This thematic issue focuses on the molecular, cellular and circuit-level mechanisms underlying pain processing and pathogenesis, spanning acute, chronic, neuropathic and cancer pain. It highlights novel regulatory pathways (e.g., mitochondrial function, ion channel signaling) and key cellular subsets (e.g., PV⁺ interneurons) that govern pain sensitization and persistence. We aim to showcase cutting-edge mechanistic studies, translational research and emerging therapeutic targets, bridging basic neuroscience and clinical pain management. This collection will provide a comprehensive update for researchers and clinicians, advancing the understanding of pain pathophysiology and accelerating the development of mechanism-based analgesic strategies.
Keywords
Pain mechanisms, Chronic pain, Cancer pain, PV⁺ interneurons, Mitochondrial function, Nociception, Neural plasticity, Pain sensitization
Sub-topics
- Molecular and cellular mechanisms of PV⁺ interneuron regulation in pain sensitization
- Mitochondrial dysfunction and metabolic remodeling in chronic pain pathogenesis
- Neural circuit plasticity in the spinal cord and brainstem underlying neuropathic pain
- Nociceptor signaling pathways and their role in acute-to-chronic pain transition
- Mechanisms of cancer pain: cross-talk between tumor microenvironment and neural system
- Emerging regulatory molecules (e.g., ion channels, cytokines) in pain processing
