A limited number of peripheral targets generate pain. Inflammatory mediators can sensitize
these. The review addresses targets acting exclusively or predominantly on sensory
neurons, mediators involved in inflammation targeting sensory neurons, and mediators
involved in a more general inflammatory process, of which an analgesic effect secondary
to an anti-inflammatory effect can be expected. Different approaches to address these
systems are discussed, including scavenging proinflammatory mediators, applying anti-inflammatory
mediators, and inhibiting proinflammatory or facilitating anti-inflammatory receptors.
New approaches are contrasted to established ones; the current stage of progress is
mentioned, in particular considering whether there is data from a molecular and cellular
level, from animals, or from human trials, including an early stage after a market
release. An overview of publication activity is presented, considering a IuPhar/BPS-curated
list of targets with restriction to pain-related publications, which was also used
to identify topics.
