Nerve growth factor contributes to the generation of inflammatory sensory hypersensitivity.

Experimental inflammation produced by an intraplantar injection of complete Freund's adjuvant results in local sensory hypersensitivity and up-regulates the neuropeptides substance P and calcitonin gene related peptide in the primary sensory neurons innervating the inflamed tissue. The inflammation also elevates nerve growth factor levels in the skin. Systemic administration of anti-NGF neutralizing antibodies prevent the behavioral sensitivity, the up-regulation of neuropeptides and the inflammation-induced expression of the immediate early gene c-fos in dorsal horn neurons, without modifying swelling and erythema. Elevation of the neurotrophin NGF in the periphery is a major contributor, therefore, of inflammatory pain.