Sodium channel protein type 7 subunit alpha (NaV1.7) (NaV1.7)

Sodium channel protein type 7 subunit alpha (NaV1.7) is a voltage-gated sodium channel predominantly expressed in peripheral neurons, including those in the dental pulp. It plays a central role in the initiation and propagation of action potentials, especially in nociceptors, and is implicated in the pathophysiology of pain, hyperalgesia, and pulpitis. Changes in expression or function of NaV1.7, as well as NaV1.8, drive pain hypersensitivity following injury or inflammation. These channels represent validated therapeutic targets for managing dental pain and related neuropathic pain conditions. Selective inhibitors are in development, aiming to block painful signaling while minimizing systemic effects.

Other names

SCN9ASodium channel Nav1.7Voltage-gated sodium channel type IX alpha subunit

Inhibition of sodium influx, which suppresses action potential propagation and neuronal excitability; Blockade can reduce or eliminate pain signaling from pulp tissue