Sigma‐1 receptor modulates neuroinflammation associated with mechanical hypersensitivity and opioid tolerance in a mouse model of osteoarthritis pain

Background and Purpose Osteoarthritic pain is a chronic disabling condition lacking effective treatment. Continuous use of opioid drugs during osteoarthritic pain induces tolerance and may result in dose escalation and abuse. Sigma‐1 (σ1) receptors, a chaperone expressed in key areas for pain control, modulates μ‐opioid receptor activity and represents a promising target to tackle these problems. The present study investigates the efficacy of...