Research progress of Cross-talk between Microglia and Astrocyte in the Comorbidity of Neuropathic Pain and Depression

Abstract

Neuropathic pain (NP) is a prevalent, chronic, and refractory condition that frequently co-occurs with depression and other negative affective states. The reciprocal relationship between NP and depression contributes to a self-perpetuating vicious cycle. Although the mechanisms underlying this comorbidity are complex and not yet fully elucidated, recent evidence highlights the pivotal roles of glial cells—particularly microglia and astrocytes—and their bidirectional interactions in the onset and progression of NP and depression comorbidity. This review systematically summarizes recent advances regarding microglia-astrocyte interactions in NP and depression comorbidity, aiming to provide a theoretical foundation for a deeper understanding of pathogenesis and the development of novel therapeutic strategies.