Cytokine mediated changes of pain sensitivity in predisposition to substance dependence

Abstract

The purpose of study was evaluation of extra- and intracellular cytokine production in blood cultures and cytokine-pain relationship at different stages of addiction. Methods. Classic and multiplex enzyme immunoassay, flow cytometry, algometry, visual analogue scale were used in 34 abusers, 12 users and 20 control subjects. Results. Cytokine profile correlated with clinical parameters and pain sensitivity in abusers (mostly IL-6 and IL-1b). IL-10 production is increased in episodic and systematic users. Activation of intracellular IL-6 synthesis was found in users. Both parameters are expected to affect the emotional evaluation of pain. Conclusion. To assess the predisposition to substance dependence most informative are balance of extra- and intracellular production of IL-6 and IL-10 and algometry.