[Molecular mechanisms of bone cancer pain].

Bone pain is one of the most frequent complications of bone metastasis, leading to a marked reduction in the quality of life of patients. The mechanisms of bone cancer pain are highly complicated ; however, noxious stimuli produced by cancer tissues and cancer-induced nerve injury are considered to be the major causes. Recent studies also suggest the possible involvement of acidic microenvironments created by cancer tissues and osteoclasts in cancer-induced bone pain. Understanding the molecular events may lead to the design of novel mechanism-based approaches for the management of bone pain associated with cancer metastasis.