European journal of pain : EJP
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P2X7 receptors are responsible for triggering inflammatory responses contributing to processes of pain in articular tissues. This study aimed to investigate whether the activation of the P2X7 receptor located in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tissues induces nociception through an inflammatory mechanisms and/or the activation of C-fibres (small-diameter primary afferents) of rats' TMJ. ⋯ The activation of P2X7 receptors has an essential role in TMJ nociception and could be an interesting target to control the inflammatory pain in temporomandibular disorders.