The therapeutic potential of natural killer cells in neuropathic pain

Novel, disease-modifying treatments for neuropathic pain are urgently required. The cellular immune response to nerve injury represents a promising target for therapeutic development. Recently, the role of natural killer (NK) cells in both the central and peripheral nervous system disease has been the subject of growing interest. In this opinion piece, we set out the case for NK cell-based intervention as a promising avenue for development in the management of neuropathic pain. We explore the potential cellular and molecular targets of NK cells in the peripheral nervous system by contrasting with their reported functional roles in central nervous system diseases, and suggest strategies for utilizing the beneficial functions of NK cells and immune-based therapeutics in the context of neuropathic pain.