Blockade of PDGFR-β activation eliminates morphine analgesic tolerance

For centuries, opioid drugs have been the mainstay of chronic pain treatment. However, over time analgesic tolerance develops, leaving few treatment options. Here we show that platelet-derived growth factor receptor-beta (PDGFR-beta)-mediated signaling plays a key role in morphine tolerance. PDGFR-beta inhibition selectively eliminates morphine tolerance in rats. PDGFR-beta inhibitors are widely used and well tolerated, suggesting that clinical translation of our findings could reduce the suffering endured by individuals with intractable pain.