Axonal protein synthesis: a potential target for pain relief?

► Nociception can be regulated at the level of local mRNA translation in nociceptors. ► Local mRNA translation can occur in primary afferents under the control of mTOR and ERK pathways. ► mTOR and ERK pathway inhibitors can reduce pain behavior. ► mTOR and ERK pathways may act independently, depending on the type of sensory afferents.