Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Regulates Skin Nerve Outgrowth and Branching

The study investigated the role of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in neural development within the skin using egfr-null and skin-specific mutant mice. It was found that EGFR is crucial for the development of the sensory component of the peripheral nervous system, specifically in regulating axonal outgrowth and branching, independent of the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). The absence of EGFR led to a hyperinnervated but disorganized array of cutaneous nerves, indicating its importance in maintaining organized nerve patterns. This research highlighted the significance of EGFR in skin nerve development, suggesting potential implications for understanding sensory nerve disorders.