Chronic neuropathic pain (NP) is a type of refractory pain and patients often suffer from great pain for a long time. Due to its poor therapeutic effect, such pain seriously reduces patients' the quality of life, while directly or indirectly imposes heavy financial burden on patient family and the society. Pannexin1 (Panx1) is a novel gap junction protein which is abundant in the nervous system and mediates the release of ATP. Experimental animal experiments indicate that Panx1 is a key molecule in the central sensitization process for the development and maintenance of NP. This article introduces the molecular evidence concerning Panx1's structure, distribution, expression, activation and internalization, and reviews recent research progress on the possible mechanisms of Panx1's involvement in chronic NP. The protein may be a new target for the development of non‑narcotic drugs in the treatment of chronic NP.