Down-regulation of μ-opioid receptor mediated epigenetically by neuron-restrictive silencer factor is involved in the reduced morphine analgesia in a bone cancer pain animal model

摘要

Background: Primary and metastatic cancers that affect bone are frequently associated with severe and intractable pain. Bone cancer pain has been reported with unique mechanisms and is resistant to morphine treatment. Previous studies have indicated that change of μ-opioid receptor (MOR) expression may be involved in the pathogenesis of bone cancer pain. In addition, neuron-restrictive silencer factor (NRSF) has been recently reported to modulate transcription of the MOR gene. The present study elucidates the regulatory mechanisms of MOR and its potential to effect bone cancer pain.