A Subpopulation of Itch-Sensing Neurons Marked by Ret and Somatostatin Expression

    February 2016 in “ EMBO reports ”
    Kalina K Stantcheva, Loredana Iovino, Rahul Dhandapani, Concepción Martínez, Laura Castaldi, Linda Nocchi, Emerald Perlas, Carla Portulano, Martina Pesaresi, Kalyanee Shirlekar, Fernanda de Castro Reis, Triantafyllos Paparountas, Daniel Bilbao, Paul A. Heppenstall
    TLDR Scientists found a specific group of itch-sensing nerve cells in mice important for feeling itch but not for sensing heat or touch.
    The study identified a specific subpopulation of itch-sensing neurons characterized by the expression of Ret and somatostatin (Sst). These neurons, marked by low Ret levels and absence of IB4 binding, played a crucial role in mediating itch sensation. Using genetically modified mouse models, researchers selectively ablated these neurons, resulting in significantly reduced scratching behavior in response to pruritogens like IL-31 and 5HT1F agonists, but not to histamine or chloroquine. The findings provided insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying itch and suggested potential targets for developing treatments for chronic itch conditions. The study involved 4-6 mice per experiment.
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