Streptozocin-induced neuropathy is associated with altered expression of voltage-gated calcium channel subunit mRNAs in rat dorsal root ganglion neurones

Voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) within sensory neurones are believed to perform an important role in neuropathic pain. In the present study we examine the changes in VGCC mRNA which occur following streptozocin- (STZ) induced diabetic neuropathy using in situ hybridization. STZ caused a signi ficant increase in alpha (2)delta (1), alpha (2)delta (2), and alpha (2)del ta (3) mRNA levels in all neuronal cell types. Similarly, mRNA levels of al pha (1F), alpha (1I), and alpha (1S) were increased in all cell types studi ed whilst alpha (1A) and alpha (1G) mRNAs were specifically upregulated in medium and large diameter neurones. In conclusion, we demonstrate that the induction of diabetic neuropathy is associated with dramatic changes in the expression of VGCCs. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science.