The Crosstalk Between Brain Energy Metabolism and Neuropathic Pain: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Implications

Normal physiological brain activity relies on precise and orderly energy supply. The brain’s complex energy metabolism (encompassing glucose, lipid, lactate, and amino acid metabolic pathways) underpins neuronal function. Neuropathic pain severely impacts patients’ quality of life, and traditional therapies often prove ineffective. This condition is frequently accompanied by energy metabolism disorders in relevant brain regions. Dysregulation of metabolic pathways disrupts neuronal energy supply and signaling, impairs synaptic transmission, and triggers abnormal glial interactions and neuroinflammation, thereby driving the onset and chronic progression of neuropathic pain. This paper systematically elucidates the impact of metabolic pathway imbalances on neuropathic pain and explores potential therapeutic strategies targeting energy homeostasis. It aims to provide novel theoretical foundations and treatment approaches for the clinical management of neuropathic pain.