Altered ATP release and metabolism in dorsal root ganglia of neuropathic rats.

Background: Adenosine 5'-triphosphate (ATP) has a ubiquitous role in metabolism and a major role in pain responses after tissue injury. We investigated the changes in basal and KCl-evoked ATP release from rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) after peripheral neuropathy induction by unilateral sciatic nerve entrapment (SNE).

Results: After SNE, rats develop long-lasting decreases in ipsilateral hindpaw withdrawal thresholds to mechanical and thermal stimulation.