Central nervous system mechanisms for pain modulation |
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Authors: | W D Willis |
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Abstract: | Although a great deal has been learned about the neural basis for stimulation-produced analgesia, it is evident that the 'analgesia systems' are much more complex than was initially thought. Part of the complexity derives from the fact that a number of different pathways, using several different neurotransmitters, can affect nociceptive transmission. Further complexity stems from evidence that nociceptive transmission can be modulated both at a spinal cord level and at higher levels of the nociceptive projection system, such as the thalamus. Hopefully, a greater understanding of the 'analgesia systems' will lead to explanations for a number of puzzling aspects of pain and perhaps to improved therapy. |
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