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Ständer S, Schmelz M. Skin Innervation. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1716-1723. [PMID: 38402477 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.10.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
All layers and appendages of the skin are densely innervated by afferent and efferent neurons providing sensory information and controlling skin perfusion and sweating. In mice, neuronal functions have been comprehensively linked to unique single-cell expression patterns and to characteristic arborization of nerve endings in skin and dorsal horn, whereas for humans, specific molecular markers for functional classes of afferent neurons are still lacking. Moreover, bidirectional communication between sensory neurons and local skin cells has become of particular interest, resulting in a broader physiological understanding of sensory function but also of trophic functions and immunomodulation in disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Ständer
- Department of Dermatology and Center for Chronic Pruritus, University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | - Martin Schmelz
- Department of Experimental Pain Research, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience (MCTN), Faculty of Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.
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2
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Olausson H, Marshall A, Nagi SS, Cole J. Slow touch and ultrafast pain fibres: Revisiting peripheral nerve classification. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 163:255-262. [PMID: 38704307 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/06/2024]
Abstract
One hundred years ago, Erlanger and Gasser demonstrated that conduction velocity is correlated with the diameter of a peripheral nerve axon. Later, they also demonstrated that the functional role of the axon is related to its diameter: touch is signalled by large-diameter axons, whereas pain and temperature are signalled by small-diameter axons. Certain discoveries in recent decades prompt a modification of this canonical classification. Here, we review the evidence for unmyelinated (C) fibres signalling touch at a slow conduction velocity and likely contributing to affective aspects of tactile information. We also review the evidence for large-diameter Aβ afferents signalling pain at ultrafast conduction velocity and likely contributing to the rapid nociceptive withdrawal reflex. These discoveries imply that conduction velocity is not as clear-cut an indication of the functional role of the axon as previously thought. We finally suggest that a future taxonomy of the peripheral afferent nervous system might be based on the combination of the axońs molecular expression and electrophysiological response properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Håkan Olausson
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58185, Sweden.
| | - Andrew Marshall
- School of Natural Sciences and Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, L3 3AF Liverpool, UK
| | - Saad S Nagi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping 58185, Sweden
| | - Jonathan Cole
- University Hospitals, Dorset and Bournemouth University, Poole BH12 5BB, UK
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3
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Weman HM, Ceder MM, Ahemaiti A, Magnusson KA, Henriksson K, Andréasson L, Lagerström MC. Spinal Glycine Receptor Alpha 3 Cells Communicate Sensations of Chemical Itch in Hairy Skin. J Neurosci 2024; 44:e1585232024. [PMID: 38553047 PMCID: PMC11079978 DOI: 10.1523/jneurosci.1585-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Glycinergic neurons regulate nociceptive and pruriceptive signaling in the spinal cord, but the identity and role of the glycine-regulated neurons are not fully known. Herein, we have characterized spinal glycine receptor alpha 3 (Glra3) subunit-expressing neurons in Glra3-Cre female and male mice. Glra3-Cre(+) neurons express Glra3, are located mainly in laminae III-VI, and respond to glycine. Chemogenetic activation of spinal Glra3-Cre(+) neurons induced biting/licking, stomping, and guarding behaviors, indicative of both a nociceptive and pruriceptive role for this population. Chemogenetic inhibition did not affect mechanical or thermal responses but reduced behaviors evoked by compound 48/80 and chloroquine, revealing a pruriceptive role for these neurons. Spinal cells activated by compound 48/80 or chloroquine express Glra3, further supporting the phenotype. Retrograde tracing revealed that spinal Glra3-Cre(+) neurons receive input from afferents associated with pain and itch, and dorsal root stimulation validated the monosynaptic input. In conclusion, these results show that spinal Glra3(+) neurons contribute to acute communication of compound 48/80- and chloroquine-induced itch in hairy skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Weman
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
| | - Mikaela M Ceder
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
| | - Aikeremu Ahemaiti
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
| | - Kajsa A Magnusson
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
| | - Katharina Henriksson
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
| | - Linn Andréasson
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
| | - Malin C Lagerström
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala 75108, Sweden
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4
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Raabe W, Walk D. Multiple averaged records to identify Aδ-fibers in sensory nerves. J Neurosci Methods 2024; 405:110081. [PMID: 38369028 DOI: 10.1016/j.jneumeth.2024.110081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing methods identify only ≈10 Aδ-fibers in human sensory nerves per recording. This study examines methods to increase the detection of Aδ-fibers. NEW METHOD Two to 20 averages of 500 replicate responses to epidermal nerve stimulation are obtained. Pairs of different averages are constructed. Each pair is analyzed with algorithms applied to amplitude and frequency to detect replication of responses to stimulation as "simultaneous similarities in two averages" (SS2AVs) at ≥99.5th percentile of control. In a pair of averages the latencies of amplitude and frequency SS2AVs for the same response to stimulation may differ by ≤0.25 ms. Therefore, Aδ-fibers are identified by the 0.25 ms moving sum of SS2AV latencies of the pairs of averages. RESULTS Increasing averages increases pairs of different averages and detection of Aδ-fibers: from 2 to 10 Aδ-fibers with two averages (one pair) to >50 Aδ-fibers with 12-20 averages (66-190 pairs). COMPARISON WITH EXISTING METHOD(S) Existing methods identify ≤10 Aδ-fibers in 10 averages/45 pairs with the medians of amplitude and frequency algorithms applied to all 45 pairs. This study identifies Aδ-fibers (i) by applying these algorithms at the 99.5th percentile of control, (ii) to each pair of averages and (iii) by the 0.25 ms sum of algorithm identified events (SS2AVs) in all pairs. These three changes significantly increase the detection of Aδ-fibers, e.g., in 10 averages/45pairs from 10 to 45. CONCLUSIONS Three modifications of existing methods can increase the detection of Aδ-fibers to an amount suitable (>50 with ≥12 averages) for statistical comparison of different nerves.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Raabe
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - D Walk
- Department of Neurology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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5
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Zhao R, Deng X, Dong J, Liang C, Yang X, Tang Y, Du J, Ge Z, Wang D, Shen Y, Jiang L, Lin W, Zhu T, Wang G. Highly Bioadaptable Hybrid Conduits with Spatially Bidirectional Structure for Precision Nerve Fiber Regeneration via Gene Therapy. ADVANCED SCIENCE (WEINHEIM, BADEN-WURTTEMBERG, GERMANY) 2024; 11:e2309306. [PMID: 38483934 PMCID: PMC11109652 DOI: 10.1002/advs.202309306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Peripheral nerve deficits give rise to motor and sensory impairments within the limb. The clinical restoration of extensive segmental nerve defects through autologous nerve transplantation often encounters challenges such as axonal mismatch and suboptimal functional recovery. These issues may stem from the limited regenerative capacity of proximal axons and the subsequent Wallerian degeneration of distal axons. To achieve the integration of sensory and motor functions, a spatially differential plasmid DNA (pDNA) dual-delivery nanohydrogel conduit scaffold is devised. This innovative scaffold facilitates the localized administration of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) gene in the proximal region to accelerate nerve regeneration, while simultaneously delivering nicotinamide mononucleotide adenylyltransferase 2 (NMNAT2) to the distal region to mitigate Wallerian degeneration. By promoting autonomous and selective alignment of nerve fiber gap sutures via structure design, the approach aims to achieve a harmonious unification of nerve regeneration, neuromotor function, and sensory recovery. It is anticipated that this groundbreaking technology will establish a robust platform for gene delivery in tissue engineering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renliang Zhao
- Orthopedics Research InstituteDepartment of OrthopedicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
- Trauma Medical CenterDepartment of Orthopedics SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Xiangtian Deng
- Orthopedics Research InstituteDepartment of OrthopedicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
- Trauma Medical CenterDepartment of Orthopedics SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Jizhao Dong
- Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced MaterialsInstitute for Frontier Medical TechnologySchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringShanghai University of Engineering Science333 Longteng Rd.Shanghai201620P. R. China
| | - Chen Liang
- Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced MaterialsInstitute for Frontier Medical TechnologySchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringShanghai University of Engineering Science333 Longteng Rd.Shanghai201620P. R. China
| | - Xiaozhong Yang
- Orthopedics Research InstituteDepartment of OrthopedicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
- Trauma Medical CenterDepartment of Orthopedics SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Yunfeng Tang
- Head & Neck Oncology WardCancer CenterWest China HospitalCancer CenterSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Juan Du
- Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced MaterialsInstitute for Frontier Medical TechnologySchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringShanghai University of Engineering Science333 Longteng Rd.Shanghai201620P. R. China
| | - Zilu Ge
- Orthopedics Research InstituteDepartment of OrthopedicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
- Trauma Medical CenterDepartment of Orthopedics SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Dong Wang
- Orthopedics Research InstituteDepartment of OrthopedicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
- Trauma Medical CenterDepartment of Orthopedics SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
| | - Yifan Shen
- Spine LabDepartment of Orthopedic SurgeryThe First Affiliated HospitalZhejiang University School of MedicineHangzhou310003China
| | - Lianghua Jiang
- Department of Orthopedic TraumaThe First People's Hospital of Kunshan affiliated with Jiangsu UniversitySuzhouJiangsu215300P. R. China
| | - Wei Lin
- Department of GynecologyWest China Second HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
| | - Tonghe Zhu
- Multidisciplinary Centre for Advanced MaterialsInstitute for Frontier Medical TechnologySchool of Chemistry and Chemical EngineeringShanghai University of Engineering Science333 Longteng Rd.Shanghai201620P. R. China
| | - Guanglin Wang
- Orthopedics Research InstituteDepartment of OrthopedicsWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041P. R. China
- Trauma Medical CenterDepartment of Orthopedics SurgeryWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengdu610041China
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6
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Howe EE, Apollinaro M, Bent LR. Mechanoreceptor sensory feedback is impaired by pressure induced cutaneous ischemia on the human foot sole and can predict cutaneous microvascular reactivity. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1329832. [PMID: 38629048 PMCID: PMC11019310 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1329832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The foot sole endures high magnitudes of pressure for sustained periods which results in transient but habitual cutaneous ischemia. Upon unloading, microvascular reactivity in cutaneous capillaries generates an influx of blood flow (PORH: post-occlusive reactive hyperemia). Whether pressure induced cutaneous ischemia from loading the foot sole impacts mechanoreceptor sensitivity remains unknown. Methods Pressure induced ischemia was attained using a custom-built-loading device that applied load to the whole right foot sole at 2 magnitudes (15 or 50% body weight), for 2 durations (2 or 10 minutes) in thirteen seated participants. Mechanoreceptor sensitivity was assessed using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments over the third metatarsal (3MT), medial arch (MA), and heel. Perceptual thresholds (PT) were determined for each site prior to loading and then applied repeatedly to a metronome to establish the time course to return to PT upon unload, defined as PT recovery time. Microvascular flux was recorded from an in-line laser speckle contrast imager (FLPI-2, Moor Instruments Inc.) to establish PORH peak and recovery rates at each site. Results PT recovery and PORH recovery rate were most influenced at the heel and by load duration rather than load magnitude. PT recovery time at the heel was significantly longer with 10 minutes of loading, regardless of magnitude. Heel PORH recovery rate was significantly slower with 10minutes of loading. The 3MT PT recovery time was only longer after 10 minutes of loading at 50% body weight. Microvascular reactivity or sensitivity was not influenced with loading at the MA. A simple linear regression found that PORH recovery rate could predict PT recovery time at the heel (R2=0.184, p<0.001). Conclusion In populations with degraded sensory feedback, such as diabetic neuropathy, the risk for ulcer development is heightened. Our work demonstrated that prolonged loading in healthy individuals can impair skin sensitivity, which highlights the risks of prolonged loading and is likely exacerbated in diabetes. Understanding the direct association between sensory function and microvascular reactivity in age and diabetes related nerve damage, could help detect early progressions of neuropathy and mitigate ulcer development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika E. Howe
- Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON, Canada
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7
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Lin S, Yang W, Zhu X, Lan Y, Li K, Zhang Q, Li Y, Hou C, Wang H. Triboelectric micro-flexure-sensitive fiber electronics. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2374. [PMID: 38490979 PMCID: PMC10943239 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46516-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Developing fiber electronics presents a practical approach for establishing multi-node distributed networks within the human body, particularly concerning triboelectric fibers. However, realizing fiber electronics for monitoring micro-physiological activities remains challenging due to the intrinsic variability and subtle amplitude of physiological signals, which differ among individuals and scenarios. Here, we propose a technical approach based on a dynamic stability model of sheath-core fibers, integrating a micro-flexure-sensitive fiber enabled by nanofiber buckling and an ion conduction mechanism. This scheme enhances the accuracy of the signal transmission process, resulting in improved sensitivity (detectable signal at ultra-low curvature of 0.1 mm-1; flexure factor >21.8% within a bending range of 10°.) and robustness of fiber under micro flexure. In addition, we also developed a scalable manufacturing process and ensured compatibility with modern weaving techniques. By combining precise micro-curvature detection, micro-flexure-sensitive fibers unlock their full potential for various subtle physiological diagnoses, particularly in monitoring fiber upper limb muscle strength for rehabilitation and training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaomei Lin
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Weifeng Yang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Xubin Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Yubin Lan
- School of Software, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, P. R. China
| | - Kerui Li
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Qinghong Zhang
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Glasses Manufacturing Technology, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Yaogang Li
- Engineering Research Center of Advanced Glasses Manufacturing Technology, Ministry of Education, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China
| | - Chengyi Hou
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China.
| | - Hongzhi Wang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai, 201620, P. R. China.
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8
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Ojeda-Alonso J, Calvo-Enrique L, Paricio-Montesinos R, Kumar R, Zhang MD, Poulet JFA, Ernfors P, Lewin GR. Sensory Schwann cells set perceptual thresholds for touch and selectively regulate mechanical nociception. Nat Commun 2024; 15:898. [PMID: 38320986 PMCID: PMC10847425 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44845-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous work identified nociceptive Schwann cells that can initiate pain. Consistent with the existence of inherently mechanosensitive sensory Schwann cells, we found that in mice, the mechanosensory function of almost all nociceptors, including those signaling fast pain, were dependent on sensory Schwann cells. In polymodal nociceptors, sensory Schwann cells signal mechanical, but not cold or heat pain. Terminal Schwann cells also surround mechanoreceptor nerve-endings within the Meissner's corpuscle and in hair follicle lanceolate endings that both signal vibrotactile touch. Within Meissner´s corpuscles, two molecularly and functionally distinct sensory Schwann cells positive for Sox10 and Sox2 differentially modulate rapidly adapting mechanoreceptor function. Using optogenetics we show that Meissner's corpuscle Schwann cells are necessary for the perception of low threshold vibrotactile stimuli. These results show that sensory Schwann cells within diverse glio-neural mechanosensory end-organs are sensors for mechanical pain as well as necessary for touch perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ojeda-Alonso
- Molecular Physiology of Somatic Sensation, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura Calvo-Enrique
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Patología, Instituto de Neurociencias de Castilla y León, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ricardo Paricio-Montesinos
- Neural Circuits and Behavior, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen e. V. (DZNE), Venusberg-Campus 1/99, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology Washington University School of Medicine, CB 8108, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ming-Dong Zhang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - James F A Poulet
- Neural Circuits and Behavior, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrik Ernfors
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Gary R Lewin
- Molecular Physiology of Somatic Sensation, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany.
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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9
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Ng KKW, Lafee O, Bouchatta O, Makdani AD, Marshall AG, Olausson H, McIntyre S, Nagi SS. Human Foot Outperforms the Hand in Mechanical Pain Discrimination. eNeuro 2024; 11:ENEURO.0412-23.2024. [PMID: 38272674 PMCID: PMC10875634 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0412-23.2024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Tactile discrimination has been extensively studied, but mechanical pain discrimination remains poorly characterized. Here, we measured the capacity for mechanical pain discrimination using a two-alternative forced choice paradigm, with force-calibrated indentation stimuli (Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments) applied to the hand and foot dorsa of healthy human volunteers. In order to characterize the relationship between peripheral nociceptor activity and pain perception, we recorded single-unit activity from myelinated (A) and unmyelinated (C) mechanosensitive nociceptors in the skin using microneurography. At the perceptual level, we found that the foot was better at discriminating noxious forces than the hand, which stands in contrast to that for innocuous force discrimination, where the hand performed better than the foot. This observation of superior mechanical pain discrimination on the foot compared to the hand could not be explained by the responsiveness of individual nociceptors. We found no significant difference in the discrimination performance of either the myelinated or unmyelinated class of nociceptors between skin regions. This suggests the possibility that other factors such as skin biophysics, receptor density or central mechanisms may underlie these regional differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K W Ng
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Odai Lafee
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Otmane Bouchatta
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Adarsh D Makdani
- Research Centre for Brain and Behaviour, School of Psychology, Liverpool John Moores University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew G Marshall
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Håkan Olausson
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Sarah McIntyre
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Saad S Nagi
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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10
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Zhuang YD, Xie HS, Chen J, Wu GH, Wu JF, Chen CM. Computer-modified paramedian approach technique reduces failures and alleviates pain in lumbar puncture: a prospective comparative study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 10:1293689. [PMID: 38317755 PMCID: PMC10838980 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1293689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The conventional midline approach for lumbar puncture (MAT-LP) has a relatively low success rate of 70%. The paramedian approach can increase the effective puncture area and success rate but lacks standardized guidelines. This study evaluated a computer-modified paramedian approach technique (CMPAT) to optimize lumbar puncture using computational techniques. Methods In this prospective study, 120 patients underwent CMPAT-LP (n = 60) or MAT-LP (n = 60). Puncture failure was defined after 6 attempts. Failure rate, number of attempts, pain score, and complications were compared. Subgroup analysis was conducted for age (≥ 50 years). Results No significant demographic differences existed between groups. Failure rates were 3.3% for CMPAT vs. 13.3% for MAT. Puncture attempts averaged 2.0 vs. 3.5 and pain scores were 2.7 vs. 4.1 for CMPAT and MAT, respectively. All outcomes were significantly improved with CMPAT, especially in elderly patients. No significant difference in complications was observed. Conclusion Compared to MAT, CMPAT-LP demonstrated lower failure rates, fewer puncture attempts, and less pain, without compromising safety. CMPAT may be superior and should be more widely implemented in clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan-Dong Zhuang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian Institute of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Hai-Shu Xie
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian Institute of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian Institute of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Guo-Hua Wu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian Institute of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
| | - Jian-Feng Wu
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian Institute of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pingtan Comprehensive Experimentation Area Hospital, Pingtan, Fujian, China
| | - Chun-Mei Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, Fujian Institute of Neurosurgery, Fuzhou, Fujian, China
- Department of Neurosurgery, Pingtan Comprehensive Experimentation Area Hospital, Pingtan, Fujian, China
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11
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Bouchatta O, Brodzki M, Manouze H, Carballo GB, Kindström E, de-Faria FM, Yu H, Kao AR, Thorell O, Liljencrantz J, Ng KKW, Frangos E, Ragnemalm B, Saade D, Bharucha-Goebel D, Szczot I, Moore W, Terejko K, Cole J, Bonnemann C, Luo W, Mahns DA, Larsson M, Gerling GJ, Marshall AG, Chesler AT, Olausson H, Nagi SS, Szczot M. PIEZO2-dependent rapid pain system in humans and mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.01.569650. [PMID: 38168273 PMCID: PMC10760115 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.01.569650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
The PIEZO2 ion channel is critical for transducing light touch into neural signals but is not considered necessary for transducing acute pain in humans. Here, we discovered an exception - a form of mechanical pain evoked by hair pulling. Based on observations in a rare group of individuals with PIEZO2 deficiency syndrome, we demonstrated that hair-pull pain is dependent on PIEZO2 transduction. Studies in control participants showed that hair-pull pain triggered a distinct nocifensive response, including a nociceptive reflex. Observations in rare Aβ deafferented individuals and nerve conduction block studies in control participants revealed that hair-pull pain perception is dependent on Aβ input. Single-unit axonal recordings revealed that a class of cooling-responsive myelinated nociceptors in human skin is selectively tuned to painful hair-pull stimuli. Further, we pharmacologically mapped these nociceptors to a specific transcriptomic class. Finally, using functional imaging in mice, we demonstrated that in a homologous nociceptor, Piezo2 is necessary for high-sensitivity, robust activation by hair-pull stimuli. Together, we have demonstrated that hair-pulling evokes a distinct type of pain with conserved behavioral, neural, and molecular features across humans and mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Otmane Bouchatta
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Marek Brodzki
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- These authors contributed equally
| | - Houria Manouze
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Gabriela B. Carballo
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Emma Kindström
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Felipe M. de-Faria
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Huasheng Yu
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - Anika R. Kao
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Oumie Thorell
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jaquette Liljencrantz
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Kevin K. W. Ng
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Eleni Frangos
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Bengt Ragnemalm
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Dimah Saade
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Diana Bharucha-Goebel
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Ilona Szczot
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Warren Moore
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Katarzyna Terejko
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Biology of Astrocytes Research Group, Łukasiewicz Research Network - PORT Polish Center for Technology Development, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Jonathan Cole
- University Hospitals, Dorset, and University of Bournemouth, UK
| | - Carsten Bonnemann
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Wenquin Luo
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, USA
| | - David A. Mahns
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
| | - Max Larsson
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Gregory J. Gerling
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, USA
| | - Andrew G. Marshall
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, UK
| | - Alexander T. Chesler
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Håkan Olausson
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Saad S. Nagi
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, Australia
- Senior author
| | - Marcin Szczot
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
- Senior author
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12
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Yu H, Usoskin D, Nagi SS, Hu Y, Kupari J, Bouchatta O, Cranfill SL, Gautam M, Su Y, Lu Y, Wymer J, Glanz M, Albrecht P, Song H, Ming GL, Prouty S, Seykora J, Wu H, Ma M, Rice FL, Olausson H, Ernfors P, Luo W. Single-Soma Deep RNA sequencing of Human DRG Neurons Reveals Novel Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Somatosensation. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.17.533207. [PMID: 36993480 PMCID: PMC10055202 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.17.533207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
The versatility of somatosensation arises from heterogeneous dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons. However, soma transcriptomes of individual human DRG (hDRG) neurons-critical in-formation to decipher their functions-are lacking due to technical difficulties. Here, we developed a novel approach to isolate individual hDRG neuron somas for deep RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). On average, >9,000 unique genes per neuron were detected, and 16 neuronal types were identified. Cross-species analyses revealed remarkable divergence among pain-sensing neurons and the existence of human-specific nociceptor types. Our deep RNA-seq dataset was especially powerful for providing insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying human somatosensation and identifying high potential novel drug targets. Our dataset also guided the selection of molecular markers to visualize different types of human afferents and the discovery of novel functional properties using single-cell in vivo electrophysiological recordings. In summary, by employing a novel soma sequencing method, we generated an unprecedented hDRG neuron atlas, providing new insights into human somatosensation, establishing a critical foundation for translational work, and clarifying human species-species properties.
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13
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Riganello F, Tonin P, Soddu A. I Feel! Therefore, I Am from Pain to Consciousness in DOC Patients. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11825. [PMID: 37511583 PMCID: PMC10380260 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Pain assessment and management in patients with disorders of consciousness (DOC) is a challenging and important aspect of care, with implications for detecting consciousness and promoting recovery. This narrative review explores the role of pain in consciousness, the challenges of pain assessment, pharmacological treatment in DOC, and the implications of pain assessment when detecting changes in consciousness. The review discusses the Nociception Coma Scale and its revised version, which are behavioral scales used to assess pain in DOC patients, and the challenges and controversies surrounding the appropriate pharmacological treatment of pain in these patients. Moreover, we highlight recent evidence suggesting that an accurate pain assessment may predict changes in the level of consciousness in unresponsive wakefulness syndrome/vegetative state patients, underscoring the importance of ongoing pain management in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Riganello
- Research in Advanced Neurorehabilitation, S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy
| | - Paolo Tonin
- Research in Advanced Neurorehabilitation, S. Anna Institute, 88900 Crotone, Italy
| | - Andrea Soddu
- Physics, and Astronomy Department, Western Institute for Neuroscience, University of Western Ontario, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada
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14
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Wang J, Liu X, Li R, Fan Y. Biomimetic strategies and technologies for artificial tactile sensory systems. Trends Biotechnol 2023; 41:951-964. [PMID: 36658007 DOI: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2022.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The sense of touch events, achieved by artificial tactile sensory systems (ATSSs), is a milestone in the progress of human-machine interactions. However, it has been a challenge for ATSSs to serve functions comparable with the human tactile perception system (HTPS). The biomimetic strategies and technologies inspired by HTPS are considered an optimal solution to this challenge. Recent studies have reported bioinspired strategies for improving specific aspects of ATSS performance, such as feature collection, signal conversion, and information computation. Here, we present a systematic interpretation of biomechanisms for HTPSs, and correspondingly, address biomimetic strategies and technologies contributing to ATSSs as an integral system. This review will benefit the development and application of ATSSs in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghui Wang
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, and with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, and with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China; State Key Laboratory of Virtual Reality Technology and Systems, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China.
| | - Ruya Li
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, and with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yubo Fan
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, and with the School of Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China; State Key Laboratory of Virtual Reality Technology and Systems, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China; School of Medical Science and Engineering Medicine, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China.
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15
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Matarazzo JV, Ajay EA, Payne SC, Trang EP, Thompson AC, Marroquin JB, Wise AK, Fallon JB, Richardson RT. Combined optogenetic and electrical stimulation of the sciatic nerve for selective control of sensory fibers. Front Neurosci 2023; 17:1190662. [PMID: 37360169 PMCID: PMC10285517 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2023.1190662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Electrical stimulation offers a drug-free alternative for the treatment of many neurological conditions, such as chronic pain. However, it is not easy to selectively activate afferent or efferent fibers of mixed nerves, nor their functional subtypes. Optogenetics overcomes these issues by controlling activity selectively in genetically modified fibers, however the reliability of responses to light are poor compared to electrical stimulation and the high intensities of light required present considerable translational challenges. In this study we employed a combined protocol of optical and electrical stimulation to the sciatic nerve in an optogenetic mouse model to allow for better selectivity, efficiency, and safety to overcome fundamental limitations of electrical-only and optical-only stimulation. Methods The sciatic nerve was surgically exposed in anesthetized mice (n = 12) expressing the ChR2-H134R opsin via the parvalbumin promoter. A custom-made peripheral nerve cuff electrode and a 452 nm laser-coupled optical fiber were used to elicit neural activity utilizing optical-only, electrical-only, or combined stimulation. Activation thresholds for the individual and combined responses were measured. Results Optically evoked responses had a conduction velocity of 34.3 m/s, consistent with ChR2-H134R expression in proprioceptive and low-threshold mechanoreceptor (Aα/Aβ) fibers which was also confirmed via immunohistochemical methods. Combined stimulation, utilizing a 1 ms near-threshold light pulse followed by an electrical pulse 0.5 ms later, approximately halved the electrical threshold for activation (p = 0.006, n = 5) and resulted in a 5.5 dB increase in the Aα/Aβ hybrid response amplitude compared to the electrical-only response at equivalent electrical levels (p = 0.003, n = 6). As a result, there was a 3.25 dB increase in the therapeutic stimulation window between the Aα/Aβ fiber and myogenic thresholds (p = 0.008, n = 4). Discussion The results demonstrate that light can be used to prime the optogenetically modified neural population to reside near threshold, thereby selectively reducing the electrical threshold for neural activation in these fibers. This reduces the amount of light needed for activation for increased safety and reduces potential off-target effects by only stimulating the fibers of interest. Since Aα/Aβ fibers are potential targets for neuromodulation in chronic pain conditions, these findings could be used to develop effective strategies to selectively manipulate pain transmission pathways in the periphery.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elise A. Ajay
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Engineering, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Sophie C. Payne
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Ella P. Trang
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Alex C. Thompson
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Andrew K. Wise
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - James B. Fallon
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
| | - Rachael T. Richardson
- Bionics Institute, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Medical Bionics Department, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
- Department of Surgery, University of Melbourne, Fitzroy, VIC, Australia
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16
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Kupari J, Ernfors P. Molecular taxonomy of nociceptors and pruriceptors. Pain 2023; 164:1245-1257. [PMID: 36718807 PMCID: PMC10184562 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jussi Kupari
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Patrik Ernfors
- Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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17
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Román-Vargas Y, Porras-Arguello JD, Blandón-Naranjo L, Pérez-Pérez LD, Benjumea DM. Evaluation of the Analgesic Effect of High-Cannabidiol-Content Cannabis Extracts in Different Pain Models by Using Polymeric Micelles as Vehicles. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28114299. [PMID: 37298776 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28114299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2023] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, cannabis is considered an attractive option for the treatment of various diseases, including pain management. Thus, developing new analgesics is paramount for improving the health of people suffering from chronic pain. Safer natural derivatives such as cannabidiol (CBD) have shown excellent potential for the treatment of these diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the analgesic effect of a CBD-rich cannabis extract (CE) encapsulated in polymeric micelles (CBD/PMs) using different pain models. The PEG-PCL polymers were characterized by gel permeation chromatography and 1H-NMR spectroscopy. PMs were prepared by solvent evaporation and characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electron microscopy. The analgesic activity of CBD/PMs and nonencapsulated CE rich in CBD (CE/CBD) was evaluated using mouse thermal, chemical, and mechanical pain models. The acute toxicity of the encapsulated CE was determined by oral administration in mice at a dose of 20 mg/kg for 14 days. The release of CBD from the nanoparticles was assessed in vitro using a dialysis experiment. CBD/PMs with an average hydrodynamic diameter of 63.8 nm obtained from a biocompatible polyethylene glycol-block-polycaprolactone copolymer were used as nanocarriers for the extract formulations with 9.2% CBD content, which corresponded with a high encapsulation efficiency of 99.9%. The results of the pharmacological assays indicated that orally administered CBD/PMs were safe and exerted a better analgesic effect than CE/CBD. The micelle formulation had a significant analgesic effect in a chemical pain model, reaching a percentage of analgesia of 42%. CE was successfully encapsulated in a nanocarrier, providing better stability. Moreover, it proved to be more efficient as a carrier for CBD release. The analgesic activity of CBD/PMs was higher than that of free CE, implying that encapsulation is an efficient strategy for improving stability and functionality. In conclusion, CBD/PMs could be promising therapeutics for pain management in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoreny Román-Vargas
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 1226, Colombia
| | - Julián David Porras-Arguello
- Grupo de Investigación Macromoléculas, Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Av. Carrera 30 # 45-03, Edif. 476, Bogotá 11001, Colombia
| | - Lucas Blandón-Naranjo
- Grupo Interdisciplinario de Estudios Moleculares-GIEM, Instituto de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 1226, Colombia
| | - León Darío Pérez-Pérez
- Grupo de Investigación Macromoléculas, Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Av. Carrera 30 # 45-03, Edif. 476, Bogotá 11001, Colombia
| | - Dora María Benjumea
- Grupo de Toxinología y Alternativas Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Departamento de Farmacia, Facultad de Ciencias Farmacéuticas y Alimentarias, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín 1226, Colombia
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18
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Després O, Mamino E, Pebayle T, Lithfous S, Dufour A. An electronical stimulator for quantitative sensory testing and evoked potential analysis of tactile Aβ nerve fibers. Clin Neurophysiol 2023; 150:184-193. [PMID: 37075683 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2023.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to determine the ability of an innovative device, the Cutaneous Mechanical Stimulator (CMS), to evaluate touch sensory pathways in Human. METHODS Two experiments were conducted in 23 healthy volunteers aged 20-30 years. In the first, mechanical detection thresholds (MDTs) were assessed using Semmes-Weinstein monofilaments and the CMS. In the second experiment, touch-evoked potentials (TEPs) elicited by tactile stimulation of the CMS on the left hand dorsum and left foot dorsum were recorded. Electroencephalographic (EEG) data were recorded at each cutaneous stimulation site in blocks of 20 tactile stimulations delivered by the CMS. The data were segmented into 1000-ms epochs. RESULTS MDTs measured by monofilaments and by the CMS were equivalent. Analyses of TEPs showed N2 and P2 components. The latencies of the N2 components on the hand dorsum and foot dorsum resulted in an estimated average conduction velocity of about 40 m.s-1, within the range of Aβ fibers. CONCLUSIONS These findings showed that the CMS could assess touch sensory pathways in young adults. SIGNIFICANCE The CMS can offer new research perspectives, as this device allows easy assessment of the MDT and enables estimation of fiber conduction velocities after tactile stimulation by the device synchronized with EEG recordings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Després
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptives (LNCA), UMR 7364 CNRS - Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 12 rue Goethe, 67000 Strasbourg, France.
| | - Elisa Mamino
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptives (LNCA), UMR 7364 CNRS - Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 12 rue Goethe, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - Thierry Pebayle
- Centre d'Investigations Neurocognitives et Neurophysiologiques (CI2N), UAR 3489 CNRS - Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 21 rue Becquerel, 67087 Strasbourg Cedex, France
| | - Ségolène Lithfous
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptives (LNCA), UMR 7364 CNRS - Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 12 rue Goethe, 67000 Strasbourg, France
| | - André Dufour
- Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives et Adaptives (LNCA), UMR 7364 CNRS - Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 12 rue Goethe, 67000 Strasbourg, France; Centre d'Investigations Neurocognitives et Neurophysiologiques (CI2N), UAR 3489 CNRS - Université de Strasbourg (UNISTRA), 21 rue Becquerel, 67087 Strasbourg Cedex, France
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19
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Rezaei M, Nagi SS, Xu C, McIntyre S, Olausson H, Gerling GJ. Thin Films on the Skin, but not Frictional Agents, Attenuate the Percept of Pleasantness to Brushed Stimuli. ARXIV 2023:arXiv:2303.00049v1. [PMID: 36911281 PMCID: PMC10002820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
Brushed stimuli are perceived as pleasant when stroked lightly on the skin surface of a touch receiver at certain velocities. While the relationship between brush velocity and pleasantness has been widely replicated, we do not understand how resultant skin movements - e.g., lateral stretch, stick-slip, normal indentation - drive us to form such judgments. In a series of psychophysical experiments, this work modulates skin movements by varying stimulus stiffness and employing various treatments. The stimuli include brushes of three levels of stiffness and an ungloved human finger. The skin's friction is modulated via non-hazardous chemicals and washing protocols, and the skin's thickness and lateral movement are modulated by thin sheets of adhesive film. The stimuli are hand-brushed at controlled forces and velocities. Human participants report perceived pleasantness per trial using ratio scaling. The results indicate that a brush's stiffness influenced pleasantness more than any skin treatment. Surprisingly, varying the skin's friction did not affect pleasantness. However, the application of a thin elastic film modulated pleasantness. Such barriers, though elastic and only 40 microns thick, inhibit the skin's tangential movement and disperse normal force. The finding that thin films modulate affective interactions has implications for wearable sensors and actuation devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merat Rezaei
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, at the University of Virginia, USA
| | - Saad S Nagi
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience (CSAN), Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Chang Xu
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, at the University of Virginia, USA
| | - Sarah McIntyre
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience (CSAN), Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Håkan Olausson
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience (CSAN), Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Gregory J Gerling
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, at the University of Virginia, USA
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20
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Xie Z, Feng J, Hibberd TJ, Chen BN, Zhao Y, Zang K, Hu X, Yang X, Chen L, Brookes SJ, Spencer NJ, Hu H. Piezo2 channels expressed by colon-innervating TRPV1-lineage neurons mediate visceral mechanical hypersensitivity. Neuron 2023; 111:526-538.e4. [PMID: 36563677 PMCID: PMC9957938 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2022.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 10/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Inflammatory and functional gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and obstructive bowel disorder (OBD) underlie the most prevalent forms of visceral pain. Although visceral pain can be generally provoked by mechanical distension/stretch, the mechanisms that underlie visceral mechanosensitivity in colon-innervating visceral afferents remain elusive. Here, we show that virally mediated ablation of colon-innervating TRPV1-expressing nociceptors markedly reduces colorectal distention (CRD)-evoked visceromotor response (VMR) in mice. Selective ablation of the stretch-activated Piezo2 channels from TRPV1 lineage neurons substantially reduces mechanically evoked visceral afferent action potential firing and CRD-induced VMR under physiological conditions, as well as in mouse models of zymosan-induced IBS and partial colon obstruction (PCO). Collectively, our results demonstrate that mechanosensitive Piezo2 channels expressed by TRPV1-lineage nociceptors powerfully contribute to visceral mechanosensitivity and nociception under physiological conditions and visceral hypersensitivity under pathological conditions in mice, uncovering potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of visceral pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zili Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; Center for Neurological and Psychiatric Research and Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China
| | - Timothy J Hibberd
- Visceral Neurophysiology Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Bao Nan Chen
- Neurogastroenterology Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Yonghui Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kaikai Zang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xueming Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Xingliang Yang
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Lvyi Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA; School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, South-Central University for Nationalities, Wuhan, Hubei, People's Republic of China
| | - Simon J Brookes
- Neurogastroenterology Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Nick J Spencer
- Visceral Neurophysiology Laboratory, College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
| | - Hongzhen Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA.
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21
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Dynamic touch induces autonomic changes in preterm infants as measured by changes in heart rate variability. Brain Res 2023; 1799:148169. [PMID: 36410429 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2022.148169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth significantly increases the risk of developing various long-term health problems and developmental disabilities. While touch is a crucial component of many perinatal care strategies, the neurobiological underpinnings are rarely considered. C-tactile fibers (CTs) are unmyelinated nerve fibers that are activated by low-force, dynamic touch. Touch directed specifically at CTs activates the posterior insular cortex, consistent with an interoceptive function, and has been shown to reduce heart rate and increase oxygen saturation. The current research compared the effect of five minutes of CT optimal velocity stroking touch versus five minutes of static touch on autonomic markers of preterm infants between 28 and 37 weeks gestational age. CT touch induces a higher increase in heart rate variability metrics related to the parasympathetic system, which persisted for a 5-minute post-touch period. Conversely, there was no such increase in infants receiving static touch. The present findings confirmed that CTs signal the affective quality of nurturing touch, thereby arguing an additional neurobiological substrate for the evident valuable impacts of neonatal tactile interventions and improving the effectiveness of such interventions.
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22
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Krotov V, Agashkov K, Romanenko S, Halaidych O, Andrianov Y, Safronov BV, Belan P, Voitenko N. Elucidating afferent-driven presynaptic inhibition of primary afferent input to spinal laminae I and X. Front Cell Neurosci 2023; 16:1029799. [PMID: 36713779 PMCID: PMC9874151 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2022.1029799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Although spinal processing of sensory information greatly relies on afferent-driven (AD) presynaptic inhibition (PI), our knowledge about how it shapes peripheral input to different types of nociceptive neurons remains insufficient. Here we examined the AD-PI of primary afferent input to spinal neurons in the marginal layer, lamina I, and the layer surrounding the central canal, lamina X; two nociceptive-processing regions with similar patterns of direct supply by Aδ- and C-afferents. Unmyelinated C-fibers were selectively activated by electrical stimuli of negative polarity that induced an anodal block of myelinated Aβ/δ-fibers. Combining this approach with the patch-clamp recording in an ex vivo spinal cord preparation, we found that attenuation of the AD-PI by the anodal block of Aβ/δ-fibers resulted in the appearance of new mono- and polysynaptic C-fiber-mediated excitatory postsynaptic current (EPSC) components. Such homosegmental Aβ/δ-AD-PI affected neurons in the segment of the dorsal root entrance as well as in the adjacent rostral segment. In their turn, C-fibers from the L5 dorsal root induced heterosegmental AD-PI of the inputs from the L4 Aδ- and C-afferents to the neurons in the L4 segment. The heterosegmental C-AD-PI was reciprocal since the L4 C-afferents inhibited the L5 Aδ- and C-fiber inputs, as well as some direct L5 Aβ-fiber inputs. Moreover, the C-AD-PI was found to control the spike discharge in spinal neurons. Given that the homosegmental Aβ/δ-AD-PI and heterosegmental C-AD-PI affected a substantial percentage of lamina I and X neurons, we suggest that these basic mechanisms are important for shaping primary afferent input to the neurons in the spinal nociceptive-processing network.
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Affiliation(s)
- Volodymyr Krotov
- Department of Sensory Signaling, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine,Department of Molecular Biophysics, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine,*Correspondence: Volodymyr Krotov,
| | - Kirill Agashkov
- Department of Sensory Signaling, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Sergii Romanenko
- Department of Sensory Signaling, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Oleh Halaidych
- Department of Sensory Signaling, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Yaroslav Andrianov
- Department of Sensory Signaling, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Boris V. Safronov
- i3S-Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal,Neuronal Networks Group, Instituto de Biologia Molecular e Celular, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pavel Belan
- Department of Molecular Biophysics, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine,Department of Biomedicine and Neuroscience, Kyiv Academic University, Kyiv, Ukraine
| | - Nana Voitenko
- Department of Sensory Signaling, Bogomoletz Institute of Physiology, Kyiv, Ukraine,Department of Biomedicine and Neuroscience, Kyiv Academic University, Kyiv, Ukraine,Dobrobut Academy Medical School, Kyiv, Ukraine
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23
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Thorell O, Ydrefors J, Svantesson M, Gerdle B, Olausson H, Mahns DA, Nagi SS. Investigations into an overlooked early component of painful nociceptive withdrawal reflex responses in humans. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH (LAUSANNE, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 3:1112614. [PMID: 36703945 PMCID: PMC9872115 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.1112614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Introduction The role of pain as a warning system necessitates a rapid transmission of information from the periphery for the execution of appropriate motor responses. The nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) is a physiological response to protect the limb from a painful stimulus and is often considered an objective measure of spinal nociceptive excitability. The NWR is commonly defined by its latency in the presumed Aδ-fiber range consistent with the canonical view that "fast pain" is signaled by Aδ nociceptors. We recently demonstrated that human skin is equipped with ultrafast (Aβ range) nociceptors. Here, we investigated the short-latency component of the reflex and explored the relationship between reflex latency and pain perception. Methods We revisited our earlier work on NWR measurements in which, following convention, only reflex responses in the presumed Aδ range were considered. In our current analysis, we expanded the time window to search for shorter latency responses and compared those with pain ratings. Results In both cohorts, we found an abundance of recordings with short-latency reflex responses. In nearly 90% of successful recordings, only single reflex responses (not dual) were seen which allowed us to compare pain ratings based on reflex latencies. We found that shorter latency reflexes were just as painful as those in the conventional latency range. Conclusion We found a preponderance of short-latency painful reflex responses. Based on this finding, we suggest that short-latency responses must be considered in future studies. Whether these are signaled by the ultrafast nociceptors remains to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oumie Thorell
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Departmentof Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Johannes Ydrefors
- Departmentof Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Mats Svantesson
- Departmentof Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Björn Gerdle
- Pain and Rehabilitation Centre, and Department of Health, Medicine and Caring Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - Håkan Olausson
- Departmentof Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
| | - David A. Mahns
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Saad S. Nagi
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Departmentof Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden,Correspondence: Saad S. Nagi
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24
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Decomposing Neural Representational Patterns of Discriminatory and Hedonic Information during Somatosensory Stimulation. eNeuro 2023; 10:ENEURO.0274-22.2022. [PMID: 36549914 PMCID: PMC9829099 DOI: 10.1523/eneuro.0274-22.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 12/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The ability to interrogate specific representations in the brain, determining how, and where, difference sources of information are instantiated can provide invaluable insight into neural functioning. Pattern component modeling (PCM) is a recent analytic technique for human neuroimaging that allows the decomposition of representational patterns in brain into contributing subcomponents. In the current study, we present a novel PCM variant that tracks the contribution of prespecified representational patterns to brain representation across areas, thus allowing hypothesis-guided employment of the technique. We apply this technique to investigate the contributions of hedonic and nonhedonic information to the neural representation of tactile experience. We applied aversive pressure (AP) and appetitive brush (AB) to stimulate distinct peripheral nerve pathways for tactile information (C-/CT-fibers, respectively) while patients underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanning. We performed representational similarity analyses (RSAs) with pattern component modeling to dissociate how discriminatory versus hedonic tactile information contributes to population code representations in the human brain. Results demonstrated that information about appetitive and aversive tactile sensation is represented separately from nonhedonic tactile information across cortical structures. This also demonstrates the potential of new hypothesis-guided PCM variants to help delineate how information is instantiated in the brain.
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25
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Moradi Tuchayi S, Wang Y, Khodorova A, Pence IJ, Evans CL, Anderson RR, Lerner EA, Woolf CJ, Garibyan L. Cryoneurolysis with Injectable Ice Slurry Modulates Mechanical Skin Pain. J Invest Dermatol 2023; 143:134-141.e1. [PMID: 35985498 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2022.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cutaneous pain is a common symptom of skin disease, and available therapies are inadequate. We developed a neural selective and injectable method of cryoneurolysis with ice slurry, which leads to a long-lasting decrease in mechanical pain. The aim of this study is to determine whether slurry injection reduces cutaneous pain without inducing the side effects associated with conventional cryoneurolysis. Using the rat sciatic nerve, we examined the effects of slurry on nerve structure and function in comparison with the effects of a Food and Drug Administration‒approved cryoneurolysis device (Iovera). Coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering microscopy and immunofluorescence staining were used to investigate histological effects on the sciatic nerve and on downstream cutaneous nerve fibers. Complete Freund's Adjuvant model of cutaneous pain was used to study the effect of the slurry on reducing pain. Structural changes in myelin induced by slurry were comparable with those induced by Iovera, which uses much colder temperatures. Compared with that of Iovera, the decrease in mechanical pain due to slurry was less profound but lasted longer without signs of dysesthesia. Slurry did not cause a reduction of epidermal nerve fibers or a change in thermal pain sensitivity. Slurry-treated rats showed reduced cutaneous mechanical pain in response to Complete Freund's Adjuvant. Slurry injection can be used to successfully reduce cutaneous pain without causing dysesthesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Moradi Tuchayi
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ying Wang
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Alla Khodorova
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Isaac J Pence
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Conor L Evans
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - R Rox Anderson
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Ethan A Lerner
- Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Cutaneous Biology Research Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Clifford J Woolf
- F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Lilit Garibyan
- Wellman Center for Photomedicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA; Department of Dermatology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
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26
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Chauhan ISJ, Cole JD, Berthoz A, Sarlegna FR. Dissociation between dreams and wakefulness: Insights from body and action representations of rare individuals with massive somatosensory deafferentation. Conscious Cogn 2022; 106:103415. [PMID: 36252519 DOI: 10.1016/j.concog.2022.103415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The realism of body and actions in dreams is thought to be induced by simulations based on internal representations used during wakefulness. As somatosensory signals contribute to the updating of body and action representations, these are impaired when somatosensory signals are lacking. Here, we tested the hypothesis that individuals with somatosensory deafferentation have impaired body and actions in their dreams, as in wakefulness. We questioned three individuals with a severe, acquired sensory neuropathy on their dreams. While deafferented participants were impaired in daily life, they could dream of themselves as able-bodied, with some sensations (touch, proprioception) and actions (such as running or jumping) which had not been experienced in physical life since deafferentation. We speculate that simulation in dreams could be based on former, "healthy" body and action representations. Our findings are consistent with the idea that distinct body and action representations may be used during dreams and wakefulness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ishan-Singh J Chauhan
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM, Marseille, France; Université Paris Nanterre, Nanterre, France.
| | - Jonathan D Cole
- Centre of Postgraduate Research and Education, Bournemouth University, Bournemouth, UK
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27
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Pouw W, Harrison SJ, Dixon JA. The importance of visual control and biomechanics in the regulation of gesture-speech synchrony for an individual deprived of proprioceptive feedback of body position. Sci Rep 2022; 12:14775. [PMID: 36042321 PMCID: PMC9428168 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-18300-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Do communicative actions such as gestures fundamentally differ in their control mechanisms from other actions? Evidence for such fundamental differences comes from a classic gesture-speech coordination experiment performed with a person (IW) with deafferentation (McNeill, 2005). Although IW has lost both his primary source of information about body position (i.e., proprioception) and discriminative touch from the neck down, his gesture-speech coordination has been reported to be largely unaffected, even if his vision is blocked. This is surprising because, without vision, his object-directed actions almost completely break down. We examine the hypothesis that IW's gesture-speech coordination is supported by the biomechanical effects of gesturing on head posture and speech. We find that when vision is blocked, there are micro-scale increases in gesture-speech timing variability, consistent with IW's reported experience that gesturing is difficult without vision. Supporting the hypothesis that IW exploits biomechanical consequences of the act of gesturing, we find that: (1) gestures with larger physical impulses co-occur with greater head movement, (2) gesture-speech synchrony relates to larger gesture-concurrent head movements (i.e. for bimanual gestures), (3) when vision is blocked, gestures generate more physical impulse, and (4) moments of acoustic prominence couple more with peaks of physical impulse when vision is blocked. It can be concluded that IW's gesturing ability is not based on a specialized language-based feedforward control as originally concluded from previous research, but is still dependent on a varied means of recurrent feedback from the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wim Pouw
- Donders Institute for Brain, Cognition and Behaviour, Radboud University Nijmegen, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
- Max Planck Institute for Psycholinguistics, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Steven J Harrison
- Center for the Ecological Study of Perception and Action, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
| | - James A Dixon
- Center for the Ecological Study of Perception and Action, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, USA
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28
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Pathophysiology of Nociception and Rare Genetic Disorders with Increased Pain Threshold or Pain Insensitivity. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2022; 29:435-452. [PMID: 35997391 PMCID: PMC9397076 DOI: 10.3390/pathophysiology29030035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain and nociception are different phenomena. Nociception is the result of complex activity in sensory pathways. On the other hand, pain is the effect of interactions between nociceptive processes, and cognition, emotions, as well as the social context of the individual. Alterations in the nociceptive route can have different genesis and affect the entire sensorial process. Genetic problems in nociception, clinically characterized by reduced or absent pain sensitivity, compose an important chapter within pain medicine. This chapter encompasses a wide range of very rare diseases. Several genes have been identified. These genes encode the Nav channels 1.7 and 1.9 (SCN9A, and SCN11A genes, respectively), NGFβ and its receptor tyrosine receptor kinase A, as well as the transcription factor PRDM12, and autophagy controllers (TECPR2). Monogenic disorders provoke hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathies. Their clinical pictures are extremely variable, and a precise classification has yet to be established. Additionally, pain insensitivity is described in diverse numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities, such as Angelman syndrome, Prader Willy syndrome, Chromosome 15q duplication syndrome, and Chromosome 4 interstitial deletion. Studying these conditions could be a practical strategy to better understand the mechanisms of nociception and investigate potential therapeutic targets against pain.
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29
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Dhondt E, Van Oosterwijck S, Van Branteghem T, Rhudy JL, Danneels L, Van Oosterwijck J. Modulation of the nociceptive flexion reflex by conservative therapy in patients and healthy people: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pain 2022; 163:1446-1463. [PMID: 34813517 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The nociceptive flexion reflex (NFR) is a spinally mediated withdrawal response and is used as an electrophysiological marker of descending modulation of spinal nociception. Chemical and pharmacological modulation of nociceptive neurotransmission at the spinal level has been evidenced by direct effects of neurotransmitters and pharmacological agents on the NFR. Largely unexplored are, however, the effects of nonpharmacological noninvasive conservative interventions on the NFR. Therefore, a systematic review and meta-analysis was performed and reported following the PRISMA guidelines to determine whether and to what extent spinal nociception measured through the assessment of the NFR is modulated by conservative therapy in patients and healthy individuals. Five electronic databases were searched to identify relevant articles. Retrieved articles were screened on eligibility using the predefined inclusion criteria. Risk of bias was investigated according to Version 2 of the Cochrane risk-of-bias assessment tool for randomized trials. The evidence synthesis for this review was conducted in accordance with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation. Thirty-six articles were included. Meta-analyses provided low-quality evidence showing that conservative therapy decreases NFR area and NFR magnitude and moderate-quality evidence for increases in NFR latency. This suggests that conservative interventions can exert immediate central effects by activating descending inhibitory pathways to reduce spinal nociception. Such interventions may help prevent and treat chronic pain characterized by enhanced spinal nociception. Furthermore, given the responsiveness of the NFR to conservative interventions, the NFR assessment seems to be an appropriate tool in empirical evaluations of treatment strategies.PROSPERO registration number: CRD42020164495.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evy Dhondt
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group
| | - Sophie Van Oosterwijck
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group
- Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Thomas Van Branteghem
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jamie L Rhudy
- Department of Psychology, University of Tulsa, Tulsa, OK, United States
| | - Lieven Danneels
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jessica Van Oosterwijck
- Spine, Head and Pain Research Unit Ghent, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
- Pain in Motion International Research Group
- Research Foundation-Flanders (FWO), Brussels, Belgium
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30
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Lumb BM, Donaldson LF. When Differential Descending Control of Speed Matters: Descending Modulation of A- versus C-Fiber Evoked Spinal Nociception. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2022; 3:910471. [PMID: 35756907 PMCID: PMC9218479 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2022.910471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Descending pain modulatory systems (DPMS) that originate within the brain and act to modulate spinal nociceptive transmission are a major determinant of the acute and chronic pain experience. Investigations of these systems in basic scientific research is critical to the development of therapeutic strategies for the relief of pain. Despite our best efforts, something is lost in translation. This article will explore whether this is due in part to a primary focus on sensory modality leading to a failure to differentiate between descending control of A- vs. C-fiber mediated spinal nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget M. Lumb
- School of Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bridget M. Lumb
| | - Lucy F. Donaldson
- Pain Centre Versus Arthritis, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
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31
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Watkins RH, Amante M, Wasling HB, Wessberg J, Ackerley R. Slowly-adapting type II afferents contribute to conscious touch sensation in humans: evidence from single unit intraneural microstimulation. J Physiol 2022; 600:2939-2952. [PMID: 35569041 PMCID: PMC9328136 DOI: 10.1113/jp282873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
NEW & NOTEWORTHY Slowly-adapting type II mechanoreceptive afferents (SA-II) in glabrous hand skin encode touch force, direction, and velocity, as well as skin stretch/tension. Using single unit intraneural microstimulation, via microneurography in humans, a single mechanoreceptive afferent can be electrically-stimulated, producing a clear percept, yet SA-II stimulation has produced ambiguous results. We show that selective SA-II stimulation produces large pressure sensations, which has implications for their role in perceived touch and generating realistic touch feedback from prosthetics. KEY POINTS Slowly adapting type II mechanoreceptors (SA-IIs) are primary sensory neurons in humans that respond to pressure and stretch applied to the skin. To date, no specific conscious correlate of touch has been linked to SA-II activation Using microneurography and intraneural microstimulation to stimulate single sensory neurons in human subjects, we find a specific sensation linked to the activation of single SA-II afferents. This sensation of touch was reported as gentle pressure and subjects could detect this with a high degree of accuracy. Methods of artificial tactile sensory feedback and computational models of touch should include SA-II s as meaningful contributors to the conscious sensation of touch. ABSTRACT Slowly-adapting type II (SA-II, Ruffini) mechanoreceptive afferents respond well to pressure and stretch, and are regularly encountered in human microneurography studies. Despite an understanding of SA-II response properties, their role in touch perception remains unclear. Specific roles of different myelinated Aβ mechanoreceptive afferents in tactile perception have been revealed using single unit intraneural microstimulation (INMS), via microneurography, recording from and then electrically stimulating individual afferents. This method directly links single afferent artificial activation to perception, where INMS produces specific 'quantal' touch percepts associated with different mechanoreceptive afferent types. However, SA-II afferent stimulation has been ambiguous, producing inconsistent, vague sensations or no clear percept. We physiologically characterized hundreds of individual Aβ mechanoreceptive afferents in the glabrous hand skin and examined the subsequent percepts evoked by trains of low amplitude INMS current pulses (<10 μA). We present 18 SA-II afferents where INMS resulted in a clear, electrically evoked sensation of large (∼36 mm2 ) diffuse pressure, which was projected precisely to their physiologically-defined receptive field in the skin. This sensation was felt as natural, distinctive from other afferents, and showed no indications of multi-afferent stimulation. Stimulus frequency modulated sensation intensity and even brief stimuli (4 pulses, 60 ms) were perceived. These results suggest SA-II afferents contribute to perceived tactile sensations, can signal this rapidly and precisely, and are relevant and important for computational models of touch sensation and artificial prosthetic feedback. Abstract figure legend Using microneurography, recordings were made from single mechanoreceptive afferents in the median nerve of human subjects. After fiber classification, low amplitude (<10 μA) intraneural microstimulation was delivered to evoke sensations of touch. Varied sensations were evoked that could be attributed to selective activation of the recorded afferents. We identify a consistent link between type II slowly adapting mechanoreceptive afferents (SA-IIs) and a specific sensation (light pressure). These sensations matched the afferent properties precisely, indicated sensations were evoked by stimulating single SA-II afferents, and were modified by stimulus train modulations. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Holmes Watkins
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LNC (Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives - UMR 7291), Marseille, France
| | - Mario Amante
- Department of Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, 40530, Sweden
| | | | - Johan Wessberg
- Department of Physiology, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, 40530, Sweden
| | - Rochelle Ackerley
- Aix Marseille Univ, CNRS, LNC (Laboratoire de Neurosciences Cognitives - UMR 7291), Marseille, France
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32
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Leon-Ariza JS, Mosquera MA, Siomin V, Fonseca A, Leon-Ariza DS, Gualdron MA, Leon-Sarmiento FE. The Vagus Nerve Somatosensory-evoked Potential in Neural Disorders: Systematic Review and Illustrative Vignettes. Clin EEG Neurosci 2022; 53:256-263. [PMID: 33709798 DOI: 10.1177/15500594211001221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Objective. To review the scientific publications reporting vagal nerve somatosensory-evoked potential (VSEP) findings from individuals with brain disorders, and present novel physiological explanations on the VSEP origin. Methods. We did a systematic review on the papers reporting VSEP findings from individuals with brain disorders and their controls. We evaluated papers published from 2003 to date indexed in PubMed, Web of Science, and Scielo databases. We extracted the following information: number of patients and controls, type of neural disorder, age, gender, stimulating/recording and grounding electrodes as well as stimulus side, intensity, duration, frequency, and polarity. Information about physiological parameters, neurobiological variables, and correlation studies was also reviewed. Representative vignettes were included to add support to our conclusions. Results. The VSEP was studied in 297 patients with neural disorders such as Parkinson's disease (PD), Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, mild cognitive impairment, subjective memory impairment, major depression, and multiple sclerosis. Scalp responses marked as the VSEP showed high variability, low validity, and poor reproducibility. VSEP latencies and amplitudes did not correlate with disease duration, unified PD rating scale score, or heart function in PD patients nor with cerebrospinal fluid β amyloid, phosphor-τ, and cognitive tests from patients with mental disorders. Vignettes demonstrated that the VSEP was volume conduction propagating from muscles surrounding the scalp recording electrodes. Conclusion. The VSEP is not a brain-evoked potential of neural origin but muscle activity induced by electrical stimulation of the tragus region of the ear. This review and illustrative vignettes argue against assessing the parasympathetic system using the so-called VSEP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mario A Mosquera
- Miami Neuroscience Institute, Baptist Hospital South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Vitaly Siomin
- Miami Neuroscience Institute, Baptist Hospital South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Angelo Fonseca
- Miami Neuroscience Institute, Baptist Hospital South Florida, Miami, FL, USA
| | | | | | - Fidias E Leon-Sarmiento
- Miami Neuroscience Institute, Baptist Hospital South Florida, Miami, FL, USA.,Parkinson's Disease Research Laboratory, 5450Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
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33
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Tavares-Ferreira D, Shiers S, Ray PR, Wangzhou A, Jeevakumar V, Sankaranarayanan I, Cervantes AM, Reese JC, Chamessian A, Copits BA, Dougherty PM, Gereau RW, Burton MD, Dussor G, Price TJ. Spatial transcriptomics of dorsal root ganglia identifies molecular signatures of human nociceptors. Sci Transl Med 2022; 14:eabj8186. [PMID: 35171654 PMCID: PMC9272153 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj8186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 76.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Nociceptors are specialized sensory neurons that detect damaging or potentially damaging stimuli and are found in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and trigeminal ganglia. These neurons are critical for the generation of neuronal signals that ultimately create the perception of pain. Nociceptors are also primary targets for treating acute and chronic pain. Single-cell transcriptomics on mouse nociceptors has transformed our understanding of pain mechanisms. We sought to generate equivalent information for human nociceptors with the goal of identifying transcriptomic signatures of nociceptors, identifying species differences and potential drug targets. We used spatial transcriptomics to molecularly characterize transcriptomes of single DRG neurons from eight organ donors. We identified 12 clusters of human sensory neurons, 5 of which are C nociceptors, as well as 1 C low-threshold mechanoreceptors (LTMRs), 1 Aβ nociceptor, 2 Aδ, 2 Aβ, and 1 proprioceptor subtypes. By focusing on expression profiles for ion channels, G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs), and other pharmacological targets, we provided a rich map of potential drug targets in the human DRG with direct comparison to mouse sensory neuron transcriptomes. We also compared human DRG neuronal subtypes to nonhuman primates showing conserved patterns of gene expression among many cell types but divergence among specific nociceptor subsets. Last, we identified sex differences in human DRG subpopulation transcriptomes, including a marked increase in calcitonin-related polypeptide alpha (CALCA) expression in female pruritogen receptor-enriched nociceptors. This comprehensive spatial characterization of human nociceptors might open the door to development of better treatments for acute and chronic pain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Tavares-Ferreira
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA.,Corresponding author: (T.J.P.); (D.T.-F.)
| | - Stephanie Shiers
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Pradipta R. Ray
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Andi Wangzhou
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Vivekanand Jeevakumar
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Ishwarya Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | | | | | - Alexander Chamessian
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University Pain Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Bryan A. Copits
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University Pain Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Patrick M. Dougherty
- Department of Pain Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert W. Gereau
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University Pain Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michael D. Burton
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Gregory Dussor
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Theodore J. Price
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA.,Corresponding author: (T.J.P.); (D.T.-F.)
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Tavares-Ferreira D, Shiers S, Ray PR, Wangzhou A, Jeevakumar V, Sankaranarayanan I, Cervantes AM, Reese JC, Chamessian A, Copits BA, Dougherty PM, Gereau RW, Burton MD, Dussor G, Price TJ. Spatial transcriptomics of dorsal root ganglia identifies molecular signatures of human nociceptors. Sci Transl Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abj8186\] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Nociceptors are specialized sensory neurons that detect damaging or potentially damaging stimuli and are found in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and trigeminal ganglia. These neurons are critical for the generation of neuronal signals that ultimately create the perception of pain. Nociceptors are also primary targets for treating acute and chronic pain. Single-cell transcriptomics on mouse nociceptors has transformed our understanding of pain mechanisms. We sought to generate equivalent information for human nociceptors with the goal of identifying transcriptomic signatures of nociceptors, identifying species differences and potential drug targets. We used spatial transcriptomics to molecularly characterize transcriptomes of single DRG neurons from eight organ donors. We identified 12 clusters of human sensory neurons, 5 of which are C nociceptors, as well as 1 C low-threshold mechanoreceptors (LTMRs), 1 Aβ nociceptor, 2 Aδ, 2 Aβ, and 1 proprioceptor subtypes. By focusing on expression profiles for ion channels, G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs), and other pharmacological targets, we provided a rich map of potential drug targets in the human DRG with direct comparison to mouse sensory neuron transcriptomes. We also compared human DRG neuronal subtypes to nonhuman primates showing conserved patterns of gene expression among many cell types but divergence among specific nociceptor subsets. Last, we identified sex differences in human DRG subpopulation transcriptomes, including a marked increase in calcitonin-related polypeptide alpha (
CALCA
) expression in female pruritogen receptor–enriched nociceptors. This comprehensive spatial characterization of human nociceptors might open the door to development of better treatments for acute and chronic pain disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Tavares-Ferreira
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Stephanie Shiers
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Pradipta R. Ray
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Andi Wangzhou
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Vivekanand Jeevakumar
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Ishwarya Sankaranarayanan
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | | | | | - Alexander Chamessian
- Department of Anesthesiology , Washington University Pain Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Bryan A. Copits
- Department of Anesthesiology , Washington University Pain Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Patrick M. Dougherty
- Department of Pain Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Robert W. Gereau
- Department of Anesthesiology , Washington University Pain Center, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Michael D. Burton
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Gregory Dussor
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
| | - Theodore J. Price
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson TX 75080, USA
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Reeh PW, Fischer MJM. Nobel somatosensations and pain. Pflugers Arch 2022; 474:405-420. [PMID: 35157132 PMCID: PMC8924131 DOI: 10.1007/s00424-022-02667-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Revised: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The Nobel prices 2021 for Physiology and Medicine have been awarded to David Julius and Ardem Patapoutian "for their discoveries of receptors for temperature and touch", TRPV1 and PIEZO1/2. The present review tells the past history of the capsaicin receptor, covers further selected TRP channels, TRPA1 in particular, and deals with mechanosensitivity in general and mechanical hyperalgesia in particular. Other achievements of the laureates and translational aspects of their work are shortly treated.
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Larsson M, Nagi SS. Role of C-tactile fibers in pain modulation: animal and human perspectives. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Croy I, Fairhurst MT, McGlone F. The role of C-tactile nerve fibers in human social development. Curr Opin Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobeha.2021.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Poulsen AH, van den Berg B, Arguissain FG, Tigerholm J, Buitenweg JR, Andersen OK, Mørch CD. Novel surface electrode design for preferential activation of cutaneous nociceptors. J Neural Eng 2022; 19. [PMID: 34996054 DOI: 10.1088/1741-2552/ac4950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective Small area electrodes enable preferential activation of nociceptive fibers. It is debated, however, whether co-activation of large fibers still occurs for the existing electrode designs. Moreover, existing electrodes are limited to low stimulation intensities, for which behavioral and physiological responses may be considered less reliable. A recent optimization study showed that there is a potential for improving electrode performance and increase the range of possible stimulation intensities. Based on those results, the present study introduces and tests a novel planar concentric array electrode design for small fiber activation in healthy volunteers. Approach Volunteers received electrical stimulation with the planar concentric array electrode and a regular patch electrode. Perception thresholds were estimated at the beginning and the end of the experiment. Evoked cortical potentials were recorded in blocks of 30 stimuli. For the patch, stimulation intensity was set to two times perception threshold (PT), while three intensities, 2, 5, and 10 times PT, were applied with the planar concentric array electrode. Sensation quality, numerical-rating scores, and reaction times were obtained for each PT estimation and during each block of evoked potential recordings. Main results Stimulation with the patch electrode was characterized as dull, while stimulation with the planar concentric array electrode was characterized as sharp, with increased sharpness for increasing stimulus intensity. Likewise, NRS scores were higher for the planar concentric array electrode compared to the patch and increased with increasing stimulation intensity. Reaction times and ERP latencies were longer for the planar concentric array electrode compared to the patch. Significance The presented novel planar concentric array electrode is a small, non-invasive, and single-use electrode that has the potential to investigate small fiber neuropathy and pain mechanisms, as it is small fiber preferential for a wide range of stimulation intensities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Hejlskov Poulsen
- Department of Health science and technology, Aalborg Universitet Det Sundhedsvidenskabelige Fakultet, Fredrik bajers vej, 7 A1, 208, Aalborg, Nordjylland, 9220, DENMARK
| | - Boudewijn van den Berg
- University of Twente Technical Medical Centre, PO box 217, 7500 AE Enschede, The Netherlands, Enschede, 7500, NETHERLANDS
| | - Federico G Arguissain
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg Universitet Det Sundhedsvidenskabelige Fakultet, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7A, Aalborg, 9220, DENMARK
| | - Jenny Tigerholm
- Health Science and Technology, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers vej 7A, Aalborg, 9220, DENMARK
| | - Jan R Buitenweg
- EWI - TST, University of Twente, PO Box 217, 7500 AE Enchende, The Netherlands, Enschende, 7500, NETHERLANDS
| | - Ole Kaeseler Andersen
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg Universitet Det Sundhedsvidenskabelige Fakultet, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7, 9220 Aalborg, Aalborg, 9220, DENMARK
| | - Carsten Dahl Mørch
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Aalborg Universitet Det Sundhedsvidenskabelige Fakultet, Fredrik Bajers Vej 7 A, Aalborg, 9220, DENMARK
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Mishra V, Shindhe PS, Killedar RS. Protocol based pain management by Ayurveda parasurgical procedures W.S.R to musculoskeletal pain and its critical appraisal - An open labeled clinical trial. J Ayurveda Integr Med 2022; 13:100665. [PMID: 36436295 PMCID: PMC9700293 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaim.2022.100665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pain has globally become an attention problem which causes discomfort by affecting the body as well as the mind. The International association of pain estimated that 1 in 5 patients experiences the pain, i.e. 30% of world population. 19.3% (180-200 million) of the total population in India suffer from chronic pain and its severity appeals early approach of patients to hospitals. Ayurveda being the oldest medical science emphasized its importance and treatment of pain with both pharmacological and non-pharmacological (Parasurgical) methods. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the efficacy of non-pharmacological (para surgical) procedures in the management of pain. MATERIALS AND METHOD Total 100 patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain fulfilling the inclusion criteria were recruited by assessing the site, severity and nature of pain. A special protocol was framed by incorporating Ayurveda treatment principles by using Para surgical procedures such as Agnikarma (Therapeutic burn), Jalauka (leech therapy), Alabu (Cupping therapy) and Siravyadha (Vein puncture). The parameters like VAS and VDS pertaining to pain were assessed from baseline and at various time points. Statistical analysis was performed by using Wilcoxon match paired test to assess the results. RESULTS The VAS and VDS scale were used to assess the efficacy of para-surgical procedures which was found to be significant (p < 0.0001) from baseline and at various time points. CONCLUSION Protocol based pain management by various para surgical procedures was found effective in the management of chronic musculoskeletal pain. The ambiguity in selection of proper parasurgical procedure for pain management is justified by following the protocol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vibhuti Mishra
- Dept of Shalya Tantra, KAHER's Shri B M Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Shahapur, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
| | - Pradeep S Shindhe
- Dept of Shalya Tantra, KAHER's Shri B M Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Shahapur, Belagavi, Karnataka, India.
| | - Ramesh S Killedar
- Dept of Shalya Tantra, KAHER's Shri B M Kankanawadi Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Shahapur, Belagavi, Karnataka, India
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Jansen LAR, Forster LA, Smith XL, Rubaharan M, Murphy AZ, Baro DJ. Changes in peripheral HCN2 channels during persistent inflammation. Channels (Austin) 2021; 15:165-179. [PMID: 33423595 PMCID: PMC7808421 DOI: 10.1080/19336950.2020.1870086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/23/2020] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Nociceptor sensitization following nerve injury or inflammation leads to chronic pain. An increase in the nociceptor hyperpolarization-activated current, Ih, is observed in many models of pathological pain. Pharmacological blockade of Ih prevents the mechanical and thermal hypersensitivity that occurs during pathological pain. Alterations in the Hyperpolarization-activated Cyclic Nucleotide-gated ion channel 2 (HCN2) mediate Ih-dependent thermal and mechanical hyperalgesia. Limited knowledge exists regarding the nature of these changes during chronic inflammatory pain. Modifications in HCN2 expression and post-translational SUMOylation have been observed in the Complete Freund's Adjuvant (CFA) model of chronic inflammatory pain. Intra-plantar injection of CFA into the rat hindpaw induces unilateral hyperalgesia that is sustained for up to 14 days following injection. The hindpaw is innervated by primary afferents in lumbar DRG, L4-6. Adjustments in HCN2 expression and SUMOylation have been well-documented for L5 DRG during the first 7 days of CFA-induced inflammation. Here, we examine bilateral L4 and L6 DRG at day 1 and day 3 post-CFA. Using L4 and L6 DRG cryosections, HCN2 expression and SUMOylation were measured with immunohistochemistry and proximity ligation assays, respectively. Our findings indicate that intra-plantar injection of CFA elicited a bilateral increase in HCN2 expression in L4 and L6 DRG at day 1, but not day 3, and enhanced HCN2 SUMOylation in ipsilateral L6 DRG at day 1 and day 3. Changes in HCN2 expression and SUMOylation were transient over this time course. Our study suggests that HCN2 is regulated by multiple mechanisms during CFA-induced inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- L-A. R. Jansen
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - L. A. Forster
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - X. L. Smith
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - M. Rubaharan
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - A. Z. Murphy
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - D. J. Baro
- Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
- Neuroscience Institute, Georgia State University, Atlanta, Georgia
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Mühlemann S, Leandri M, Risberg ÅI, Spadavecchia C. Comparison of Threshold and Tolerance Nociceptive Withdrawal Reflexes in Horses. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11123380. [PMID: 34944157 PMCID: PMC8698093 DOI: 10.3390/ani11123380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Nociception is the physiological basis of the complex experience of pain. An established model for its quantification in equine studies is based on the nociceptive withdrawal reflex evoked by electrical stimulation of a sensory nerve. The reflex is recorded via electromyography and it is common to determine the threshold at which a nociceptive-specific reflex activity can be observed. In the present study, the classical methodology was expanded for a deeper understanding of the physiology of nociceptive reflexes in horses. First, for each individual horse, a threshold was determined as the minimal stimulation intensity able to evoke a nociceptive withdrawal reflex. Second, the stimulation intensity was stepwise increased up to tolerance, which was defined as the stimulus that is able to elicit the maximal tolerable behavioral reaction. The characteristics of the reflex activity on the electromyographic records were compared for threshold and tolerance stimulation intensities. At tolerance, the reflex became faster and wider than at threshold, indicating that either a spinal summation mechanism or the recruitment of faster sensory fibers occurs in response to high-intensity noxious stimuli. A novel endpoint (i.e., tolerance) can now be considered when applying the nociceptive withdrawal reflex model in equine studies. Abstract The nociceptive withdrawal reflex (NWR) is used to investigate nociception in horses. The NWR threshold is a classical model endpoint. The aims of this study were to determine NWR tolerance and to compare threshold and tolerance reflexes in horses. In 12 horses, the NWR was evoked through electrical stimulation of the digital nerve and recorded via electromyography from the deltoid. Behavioral reactions were scored from 0 to 5 (tolerance). First, the individual NWR threshold was defined, then stimulation intensity was increased to tolerance. The median NWR threshold was 7.0 mA, whereas NWR tolerance was 10.7 mA. Upon visual inspection of the records, two main reflex components R1 (median latency 44 ms) and R2 (median latency 81 ms) were identified at threshold. Increasing stimulation intensity to tolerance led to a significant increase in the amplitude and duration of R1 and R2, whereas their latency decreased. At tolerance, a single burst of early, high-amplitude reflex activity, with a median latency of 39 ms, was detected in 15 out of 23 stimulations (65%). The results of this study suggest that (1) it is feasible to determine NWR tolerance in horses and (2) high-intensity stimuli initiate ultrafast bursts of reflex activity, which is well known in practice and has now been quantified using the NWR model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Mühlemann
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Anaesthesia Section, Vetsuisse Faculty Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
| | - Massimo Leandri
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Genova, 16132 Genova, Italy;
| | - Åse Ingvild Risberg
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1433 Ås, Norway;
| | - Claudia Spadavecchia
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Anaesthesia Section, Vetsuisse Faculty Bern, 3012 Bern, Switzerland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +41-31-684-29-57
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Fabig SC, Kersebaum D, Lassen J, Sendel M, Jendral S, Muntean A, Baron R, Hüllemann P. A modality-specific somatosensory evoked potential test protocol for clinical evaluation: A feasibility study. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:3104-3115. [PMID: 34740042 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.08.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 07/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/29/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to establish an objective neurophysiological test protocol that can be used to assess the somatosensory nervous system. METHODS In order to assess most fiber subtypes of the somatosensory nervous system, repetitive stimuli of seven different modalities (touch, vibration, pinprick, cold, contact heat, laser, and warmth) were synchronized with the electroencephalogram (EEG) and applied on the cheek and dorsum of the hand and dorsum of the foot in 21 healthy subjects and three polyneuropathy (PNP) patients. Latencies and amplitudes of the modalities were assessed and compared. Patients received quantitative sensory testing (QST) as reference. RESULTS We found reproducible evoked potentials recordings for touch, vibration, pinprick, contact-heat, and laser stimuli. The recording of warm-evoked potentials was challenging in young healthy subjects and not applicable in patients. Latencies were shortest within Aβ-fiber-mediated signals and longest within C-fibers. The test protocol detected function loss within the Aβ-fiber and Aδ-fiber-range in PNP patients. This function loss corresponded with QST findings. CONCLUSION In this pilot study, we developed a neurophysiological test protocol that can specifically assess most of the somatosensory modalities. Despite technical challenges, initial patient data appear promising regarding a possible future clinical application. SIGNIFICANCE Established and custom-made stimulators were combined to assess different fiber subtypes of the somatosensory nervous system using modality-specific evoked potentials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sophie-Charlotte Fabig
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Dilara Kersebaum
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Josephine Lassen
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Manon Sendel
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Swantje Jendral
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Alexandra Muntean
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Ralf Baron
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
| | - Philipp Hüllemann
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Arnold-Heller-Straße 3, Haus D, 24105 Kiel, Germany
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Vicarious ratings of social touch the effect of age and autistic traits. Sci Rep 2021; 11:19336. [PMID: 34588542 PMCID: PMC8481497 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-98802-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Tactile sensitivities are common in Autism Spectrum Conditions (autism). Psychophysically, slow, gentle stroking touch is typically rated as more pleasant than faster or slower touch. Vicarious ratings of social touch results in a similar pattern of velocity dependent hedonic ratings as directly felt touch. Here we investigated whether adults and children’s vicarious ratings vary according to autism diagnosis and self-reported autistic traits. Adults’ scoring high on the AQ rated stroking touch on the palm as less pleasant than a Low AQ group. However, in contrast to our hypothesis, we did not find any effect of autism diagnosis on children’s touch ratings despite parental reports highlighting significant somatosensory sensitivities. These results are discussed in terms of underpinning sensory and cognitive factors.
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Cruciani G, Zanini L, Russo V, Boccardi E, Spitoni GF. Pleasantness ratings in response to affective touch across hairy and glabrous skin: A meta-analysis. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2021; 131:88-95. [PMID: 34537264 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2021.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The processing of hedonic aspects of touch, namely affective touch, is associated with the activation of C-Tactile (CT) fibers. CTs were thought to be present only in hairy skin, with glabrous skin being often used as control site in affective touch studies. Nevertheless, several articles comparing pleasantness perception across hairy and glabrous skin reported no significant differences. Surprisingly, CT fibers have also been recently detected on the glabrous palm, further questioning whether affective touch perception across both hairy and glabrous skin is comparable. The present meta-analysis thus aimed to quantify pleasantness perception of affective tactile stimulations on both hairy and glabrous sites. Pooled effect sizes (Hedges' g) from 18 studies were analyzed using random effect models. No systematic preference towards affective stimulations on hairy or glabrous skin was observed. Moreover, studies were highly heterogeneous, suggesting high variance in the results of the retrieved articles. Results were not affected by publication bias nor by other moderators. Variables affecting affective touch perception on hairy and glabrous skin and methodological considerations were discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianluca Cruciani
- Department of Psychology, PhD Program in Behavioral Neuroscience, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, Rome, Italy.
| | - Ludovica Zanini
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, Rome, Italy
| | - Valentina Russo
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, Rome, Italy
| | - Erika Boccardi
- Department of Psychology, Sapienza University of Rome, Via dei Marsi 78, Rome, Italy
| | - Grazia Fernanda Spitoni
- Department of Dynamic and Clinical Psychology, and Health Studies, Sapienza University of Rome, Via degli Apuli 1, Rome, Italy; Cognitive and Motor Rehabilitation and Neuroimaging Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Santa Lucia, Via Ardeatina 306-354, Rome, Italy
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Middleton SJ, Perez-Sanchez J, Dawes JM. The structure of sensory afferent compartments in health and disease. J Anat 2021; 241:1186-1210. [PMID: 34528255 PMCID: PMC9558153 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary sensory neurons are a heterogeneous population of cells able to respond to both innocuous and noxious stimuli. Like most neurons they are highly compartmentalised, allowing them to detect, convey and transfer sensory information. These compartments include specialised sensory endings in the skin, the nodes of Ranvier in myelinated axons, the cell soma and their central terminals in the spinal cord. In this review, we will highlight the importance of these compartments to primary afferent function, describe how these structures are compromised following nerve damage and how this relates to neuropathic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Middleton
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - John M Dawes
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Yoshida S, Funato H. Physical contact in parent-infant relationship and its effect on fostering a feeling of safety. iScience 2021; 24:102721. [PMID: 34235413 PMCID: PMC8250458 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2021.102721] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The infant-caregiver relationship involves physical contact for feeding, moving, and other cares, and such contact also encourages the infant to form an attachment, an emotional bond with the caregivers. Physical contact always accompanies somatosensory perception, which is detected by mechanosensory neurons and processed in the brain. Physical contact triggers sensorimotor reflexes such as Transport Response in rodent infants, and calm human infants while being carried. Tactile sensation and deep pressure in physical interactions, such as hugging, can function as emotional communication between infant and caregiver, which can alter the behavior and mood of both the infant and caregiver. This review summarizes the findings related to physical contact between the infant and the caregiver in terms of pleasant, noxious, and neutral somatosensation and discusses how somatosensory perceptions foster a feeling of safety that is important for infant's psychosocial development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachine Yoshida
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Toho University, Ota-ku, Tokyo 143-8540, Japan
| | - Hiromasa Funato
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Toho University, Ota-ku, Tokyo 143-8540, Japan
- International Institute for Integrative Sleep Medicine (WPI-IIIS), University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
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Rezaei M, Nagi SS, Xu C, McIntyre S, Olausson H, Gerling GJ. Thin Films on the Skin, but not Frictional Agents, Attenuate the Percept of Pleasantness to Brushed Stimuli. WORLD HAPTICS CONFERENCE. WORLD HAPTICS CONFERENCE 2021; 2021:49-54. [PMID: 35043106 PMCID: PMC8763324 DOI: 10.1109/whc49131.2021.9517259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Brushed stimuli are perceived as pleasant when stroked lightly on the skin surface of a touch receiver at certain velocities. While the relationship between brush velocity and pleasantness has been widely replicated, we do not understand how resultant skin movements - e.g., lateral stretch, stick-slip, normal indentation - drive us to form such judgments. In a series of psychophysical experiments, this work modulates skin movements by varying stimulus stiffness and employing various treatments. The stimuli include brushes of three levels of stiffness and an ungloved human finger. The skin's friction is modulated via non-hazardous chemicals and washing protocols, and the skin's thickness and lateral movement are modulated by thin sheets of adhesive film. The stimuli are hand-brushed at controlled forces and velocities. Human participants report perceived pleasantness per trial using ratio scaling. The results indicate that a brush's stiffness influenced pleasantness more than any skin treatment. Surprisingly, varying the skin's friction did not affect pleasantness. However, the application of a thin elastic film modulated pleasantness. Such barriers, though elastic and only 40 microns thick, inhibit the skin's tangential movement and disperse normal force. The finding that thin films modulate affective interactions has implications for wearable sensors and actuation devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merat Rezaei
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, at the University of Virginia, USA
| | - Saad S Nagi
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience (CSAN), Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Chang Xu
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, at the University of Virginia, USA
| | - Sarah McIntyre
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience (CSAN), Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Håkan Olausson
- Center for Social and Affective Neuroscience (CSAN), Linköping University, Sweden
| | - Gregory J Gerling
- School of Engineering and Applied Science, at the University of Virginia, USA
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49
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Leandri M, Di Stefano G, Truini A, Marinelli L. Early nociceptive evoked potentials (NEPs) recorded from the scalp. Clin Neurophysiol 2021; 132:2896-2906. [PMID: 34226125 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2021.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Neurophysiological investigation of nociceptive pathway has so far been limited to late cortical responses. We sought to detect early components of the cortical evoked potentials possibly reflecting primary sensory activity. METHODS The 150 IDE micropatterned electrode was used to selectively activate Aδ intraepidermic fibres of the right hand dorsum in 25 healthy subjects and 3 patients suffering from trigeminal neuralgia. Neurographic recordings were performed to assess type of stimulated fibres and check selectivity. Cortical evoked potentials were recorded from C3'-Fz and Cz-Au1. RESULTS Neurographic recordings confirmed selective activation of Aδ fibres. Early components were detected after repetitive stimulation (0.83/s rate and 250-500 averages); the first negative component occured at 40 ms (N40) on the contralateral scalp. CONCLUSIONS The provided data support the hypothesis that N40 could be the cortical primary response conducted by fast Aδ fibres. SIGNIFICANCE This is the first report of early, possibly primary, cortical responses in humans by nociceptive peripheral stimulation. Although not perfected yet to allow widespread diagnostic use, this is probably the only method to allow fully objective evaluation of the nociceptive system, with important future implications in experimental and clinical neurophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Leandri
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genova, L.go Daneo 3, 16132 Genova, Italy.
| | - Giulia Di Stefano
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Viale dell'Università 30, 00185 Roma, Italy.
| | - Andrea Truini
- Department of Human Neuroscience, Sapienza University, Viale dell'Università 30, 00185 Roma, Italy.
| | - Lucio Marinelli
- Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genova, L.go Daneo 3, 16132 Genova, Italy; Department of Neuroscience, Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, L.go R. Benzi 10, 16132 Genova, Italy.
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50
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Middleton SJ, Barry AM, Comini M, Li Y, Ray PR, Shiers S, Themistocleous AC, Uhelski ML, Yang X, Dougherty PM, Price TJ, Bennett DL. Studying human nociceptors: from fundamentals to clinic. Brain 2021; 144:1312-1335. [PMID: 34128530 PMCID: PMC8219361 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awab048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain affects one in five of the general population and is the third most important cause of disability-adjusted life-years globally. Unfortunately, treatment remains inadequate due to poor efficacy and tolerability. There has been a failure in translating promising preclinical drug targets into clinic use. This reflects challenges across the whole drug development pathway, from preclinical models to trial design. Nociceptors remain an attractive therapeutic target: their sensitization makes an important contribution to many chronic pain states, they are located outside the blood-brain barrier, and they are relatively specific. The past decade has seen significant advances in the techniques available to study human nociceptors, including: the use of corneal confocal microscopy and biopsy samples to observe nociceptor morphology, the culture of human nociceptors (either from surgical or post-mortem tissue or using human induced pluripotent stem cell derived nociceptors), the application of high throughput technologies such as transcriptomics, the in vitro and in vivo electrophysiological characterization through microneurography, and the correlation with pain percepts provided by quantitative sensory testing. Genome editing in human induced pluripotent stem cell-derived nociceptors enables the interrogation of the causal role of genes in the regulation of nociceptor function. Both human and rodent nociceptors are more heterogeneous at a molecular level than previously appreciated, and while we find that there are broad similarities between human and rodent nociceptors there are also important differences involving ion channel function, expression, and cellular excitability. These technological advances have emphasized the maladaptive plastic changes occurring in human nociceptors following injury that contribute to chronic pain. Studying human nociceptors has revealed new therapeutic targets for the suppression of chronic pain and enhanced repair. Cellular models of human nociceptors have enabled the screening of small molecule and gene therapy approaches on nociceptor function, and in some cases have enabled correlation with clinical outcomes. Undoubtedly, challenges remain. Many of these techniques are difficult to implement at scale, current induced pluripotent stem cell differentiation protocols do not generate the full diversity of nociceptor populations, and we still have a relatively poor understanding of inter-individual variation in nociceptors due to factors such as age, sex, or ethnicity. We hope our ability to directly investigate human nociceptors will not only aid our understanding of the fundamental neurobiology underlying acute and chronic pain but also help bridge the translational gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Middleton
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Allison M Barry
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Maddalena Comini
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Pradipta R Ray
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Stephanie Shiers
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Andreas C Themistocleous
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK.,Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Megan L Uhelski
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain Medicine, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Xun Yang
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Patrick M Dougherty
- Brain Function Research Group, School of Physiology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg 2000, South Africa
| | - Theodore J Price
- Department of Neuroscience and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - David L Bennett
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
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