AQP4 mitigates chronic neuropathic pain-induced cognitive impairment in mice

Neuropathic pain is a risk factor for cognitive defects. The ubiquitous expression of AQP4 in astrocytes throughout the central nervous system is altered in the neurodegenerative disease. However, the exact role of AQP4 in cognitive impairment induced by chronic neuropathic pain remains unclear. In this study, we discov-ered that AQP4 protein and mRNA expression decreased time-dependently in the model of chronic neuropathic pain-induced cognitive disorder. AQP4 overexpression recovered mice from cognitive impairment. Furthermore, the concentration of A beta 1-42 in the serum and hippocampus reduced in mice with AQP4 overexpression adeno-associated virus injection. In conclusion, AQP4 in astrocytes is important in mitigating cognitive impairment caused by chronic neuropathic pain.

Automated summary

Neuropathic pain-induced cognitive impairment is associated with decreased expression of AQP4 protein and mRNA. AQP4 overexpression can restore cognitive deficits in mice. Furthermore, AQP4 overexpression also reduces the concentration of A beta 1-42 in the serum and hippocampus. In conclusion, AQP4 in astrocytes plays an important role in mitigating cognitive impairment caused by chronic neuropathic pain.