Inflammatory and neuropathic pain impact on the opioid function in the mesocorticolimbic system

Inflammatory and neuropathic pain induce alterations in the mesocorticolimbic system (MCLS) that might underlie several pain comorbidities including negative affect and drug use disorders, specially opioids and alcohol. Different imaging researches in the clinical set up but also many preclinical investigations have shown that pain impacts the function or density of mu opioid receptors and/or kappa opioid receptors altering the normal function of the areas of the MCLS, and consequently, modifying the behavioral output. In this chapter, we analyses the effect of the presence of pain in these receptors in the MCLS, and the possible outcomes of these alterations that ultimately may impact the quality of life of chronic pain patients.