Mechanism-Based Neurotherapeutics for Osteoarticular Pain

Abstract

Chronic joint pain represents a high-prevalence disabling condition with an unmet need for effective treatment. Recent advances in our understanding of the molecular basis of the inhibitory effects of botulinum toxin on neuronal exocytosis, as well as the neurobiology of persistent osteoarticular pain, are emerging with preclinical animal studies and initial clinical experience with intra-articular administration of botulinum toxin type A. The convergence of notable progress in these basic and clinical science investigations presents a sound and attractive foundation for a timely discussion of interactive translation of basic research findings into clinical experience and back again to the laboratory.