Lysophosphatidic Acid and Signaling in Sensory Neurons

Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) was initially identified as a growth factor but was later found to have multiple roles, including modulation of cell shape, migration, and prevention of apoptosis. It primarily acts through six G-protein-coupled receptors (LPA1-6) and the nuclear receptor PPARγ. LPA was implicated in neuropathic pain and cholestatic itch, with increased LPA levels correlating with these conditions. The exact mechanisms remain unclear, but LPA's role in sensory neuron signaling was significant. Elevated autotaxin, which produces LPA, was also linked to chronic itch in conditions like atopic dermatitis and Hodgkin's disease.