Peripheral nerve injury decreases synaptic drive to inhibitory neurons in substantia gelatinosa.
Decreased synaptic drive involves functional loss of Ca2 + permeable AMPA receptors.
Injury decreases single channel conductance of AMPA receptors on inhibitory neurons.
Injury increases single channel conductance of AMPA receptors on excitatory neurons.
Findings are related to the etiology of neuropathic pain and to potential therapeutic approaches.