Microglia Polarization: A Key Regulatory Mechanism of Neuropathic Pain

Neuropathic pain is a chronic pain syndrome resulting from damage or dysfunction to the somatosensory nervous system, significantly impairing patients' quality of life. Microglia play a crucial role in the development and maintenance of neuropathic pain, particularly through their polarization mechanisms. This review summarizes the regulatory mechanisms underlying microglial polarization in neuropathic pain, the associated signaling pathways, pharmacological agents that modulate microglial polarization, and intervention strategies targeting neuropathic pain. We emphasize the intrinsic link between microglial polarization and neuropathic pain, aiming to identify potential therapeutic targets and provide a scientific basis for drug development and preclinical research in the treatment of neuropathic pain.