Inflammation-induced hyperexcitability of nociceptive gastrointestinal DRG neurones: the role of voltage-gated ion channels

Gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation modulates the intrinsic properties of nociceptive dorsal root ganglia neurones, which innervate the GI tract and these changes are important in the genesis of abdominal pain and visceral hyperalgesia. neurones exhibit hyperexcitability characterized by a decreased threshold for activation and increased firing rate, and changes in voltage-gated Na+ and K+ channels play a major role in this plasticity. This review highlights emerging evidence that specific subsets of channels and signalling pathways are involved and their potential to provide novel selective therapeutic targets for the treatment of abdominal pain.