Diet can modify autotomy behavior in rats following peripheral neurectomy

Partial sciatic nerve ligation in rats (PSL) produces neuropathic pain disorders [Seltzer, Z., Dubner, R. and Shir, Y., Pain, 43 (1990) 245-250]. Recently we reported that diet markedly affected the levels of these disorders. Here we questioned whether diet also affects neuropathic pain-related behavior in another model, produced by total denervation of the hindpaw following peripheral sciatic and saphenous neurectomy. Sabra rats and HA line rats were fed for 2-3 weeks preoperatively and up to 58 days postoperatively (PO) with one of five different diet formulas. We found that the autotomy behavior differed significantly between the diet groups. Surprisingly, in some diets the effects on autotomy and PSL models were different and even contrasting. Modulation of diet in humans may emerge as a novel therapy of neuropathic pain. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd.