Molecular Genetic Studies of Somatosensation

National Institute Of Dental & Craniofacial Research

Investigators

Linked publications, trials & patents

Abstract

We investigate various aspects of the molecular and cellular basis for somatosensation. These studies have included the examination of itch signaling, examination of the primary neurons involved in detection of thermal stimulation, and those important in spinal cord processing of thermal stimuli. Our studies have used a variety of techniques aimed at determining the cellular and the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes. We use optogenetics and chemogenetics to precisely define neuronal involvement and the location of these units in sensory pathways. Using mutant mice lacking genes in specific tissues has allowed us to pinpoint and validate the contribution of signaling components. Pharmacological characterization and selective cellular ablation has further allowed us to explore the processes taking place in these pathways. Lastly, we employed unbiased approaches to identify novel agents involved in chronic itch. Overall, our studies reveal that somatosensory discrimination is achieved at the periphery by sensory neurons which detect restricted types of stimuli and transmit signals to partially dedicated signaling pathways. Lastly, we are studying descending pain pathways with a focus on dissecting the neuronal populations in the rostral ventral medulla responsible for this.