MicroRNA-183 Suppresses Neuropathic Pain and Expression of AMPA Receptors by Targeting mTOR/VEGF Signaling Pathway

Abstract

Background: Neuropathic pain is a type of chronic pain that results from dysfunctions of the somatosensory nerve system. This study was aimed to investigate the effect of mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway on neuropathic pain and the regulation mechanisms of miR-183 on AMPA Receptors through mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway. Methods: Chronic compress injury (CCI) model was constructed in the current study, we used paw withdrawal mechanic threshold (PWMT) and paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL) to observe mTOR and VEGF receptors. Dual luciferase analysis, western blot and qRT-PCR were also applied to complete this experiment. Results: It was observed that the inhibition of mTOR and VEGF receptors could significantly relieve neuropathic pain in the CCI model. Moreover mTOR was confirmed as the direct target of miR-183. Furthermore, miR-183 could modulate VEGF through regulating mTOR expressions. We also found the expressions of AMPA receptors (i.e. GluR1 and GluR2), located in the downstream of mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway, were significantly upregulated when miR-183 was downregulated or when the mTOR/VEGF signaling pathway was activated. Conclusion: The inhibition of mTOR or VEGF receptors can significantly relieve neuropathic pain, and the upregulation of miR-183 can suppress AMPA receptors by inhibiting mTOR/VEGF pathway.