Researchers at the University of Arizona Medical School have concluded that the protein kinase M zeta , also known as PKMzeta and discovered in 1993, is responsible for pain and injury after suffering a blow or injury. sensitivity is prolonged over time . Scientists already knew that when we experience pain the neurons that carry pain signals develop stronger connections, especially in the spine, and that something similar happens in the brain when we learn something new . After their investigation, they have come to the conclusion that PKMzeta is involved in both processes.
The new study, published in The Journal of Neuroscience , could lead to new treatments to relieve severe and chronic pain. The protein PKMzeta could also be related to post-traumatic stress syndrome and addictions.
In 2009, scientists from New York already demonstrated that by injecting into the brain rodents ZIP, an inhibitor of the enzyme PKMzeta, it was possible to selectively erase memories , for example associated with unpleasant and painful experiences.
