Cdk5 - A new player in pain signaling

Cyclin-dependent kinase 5 (Cdk5) is predominantly active in postmitotic neurons. Despite its structural homology with other cyclin-dependent kinases, Cdk5 is apparently not involved in the cell cycle process. The monomeric form of Cdk5 is inactive and requires the association of p35 or p39 in order to perform its kinase activity. This kinase is essential for normal brain development and function, but uncontrolled activity of Cdk5 may lead to numerous neurodegenerative processes. Although Cdk5 activity has been implicated in several neuronal functions, its precise role in the peripheral nervous system has not been determined. Recently we reported for the first time the essential role for Cdk5 in pain signaling (Pareek et al., PNAS 2006; 103: 791 - 6). Altered nociceptive responses to basal thermal noxious stimuli in p35 knockout (p35(-/-)) and p35-overexpresing transgenic mice (Tgp35) have established the important role of this gene in the nociceptive process. Here, we report that Cdk5 regulates mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase1/2 (MEK1/2) activity through a negative feedback loop during the peripheral inflammatory response. Moreover a differential nociceptive response after chronic morphine exposure in p35(-/-) and Tgp35 mice suggests that Cdk5 activity is important for opioid tolerance. In conclusion, our data indicate important molecular roles for Cdk5 in pain signaling and opioid tolerance, which makes it a potential target for analgesic drug development.