Synaptic plasticity in the anterior cingulate cortex in acute and chronic pain

Key Points The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays an important part in chronic pain states. NMDA-receptor-dependent postsynaptic long-term potentiation (LTP) in the ACC sustains the affective component of the pain state. Kainate-receptor-dependent presynaptic LTP in the ACC contributes to pain-related anxiety. The mechanism for neuropathic pain is linked to the expression of LTP in the ACC. Upregulation of GluN2B-containing NMDA receptors is found in chronic neuropathic pain conditions. Calcium-stimulated adenylyl cyclase 1 is a potential target for future treatment of chronic pain and anxiety.