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O’Brien J, Niehaus P, Chang K, Remark J, Barrett J, Dasgupta A, Adenegan M, Salimian M, Kevas Y, Chandrasekaran K, Kristian T, Chellappan R, Rubin S, Kiemen A, Lu CPJ, Russell JW, Ho CY. Skin keratinocyte-derived SIRT1 and BDNF modulate mechanical allodynia in mouse models of diabetic neuropathy. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2023.01.24.523981. [PMID: 36747753 PMCID: PMC9900813 DOI: 10.1101/2023.01.24.523981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Diabetic neuropathy is a debilitating disorder characterized by spontaneous and mechanical pain. The role of skin mechanoreceptors in the development of mechanical pain (allodynia) is unclear. We discovered that mice with diabetic neuropathy had decreased sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) deacetylase activity in foot skin, leading to reduced expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and subsequent loss of innervation in Meissner corpuscles, a mechanoreceptor expressing the BDNF receptor TrkB. When SIRT1 was depleted from skin, the mechanical allodynia worsened in diabetic neuropathy mice, likely due to retrograde degeneration of the Meissner-corpuscle innervating Aβ axons and aberrant formation of Meissner corpuscles which may have increased the mechanosensitivity. The same phenomenon was also noted in skin BDNF knockout mice. Furthermore, overexpression of SIRT1 in skin induced Meissner corpuscle reinnervation and regeneration, resulting in significant improvement of diabetic mechanical allodynia. Overall, the findings suggested that skin-derived SIRT1 and BDNF function in the same pathway in skin sensory apparatus regeneration and highlighted the potential of developing topical SIRT1-activating compounds as a novel treatment for diabetic mechanical allodynia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer O’Brien
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Peter Niehaus
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Koping Chang
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Pathology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, 100, Taiwan
| | - Juliana Remark
- Hansj rg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Joy Barrett
- Hansj rg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - Abhishikta Dasgupta
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Morayo Adenegan
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Mohammad Salimian
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Yanni Kevas
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Krish Chandrasekaran
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Tibor Kristian
- Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Rajeshwari Chellappan
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, 35233, USA
| | - Samuel Rubin
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Chemistry, College of William and Mary, Williamsburg, VA, 23187, USA
| | - Ashley Kiemen
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
| | - Catherine Pei-Ju Lu
- Hansj rg Wyss Department of Plastic Surgery, Department of Cell Biology, New York University School of Medicine, New York, NY, 10016, USA
| | - James W. Russell
- Department of Neurology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
- Baltimore Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
| | - Cheng-Ying Ho
- Department of Pathology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21231, USA
- Department of Pathology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21201, USA
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2
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Logan DR, Hall J, Bianchi L. A helping hand: roles for accessory cells in the sense of touch across species. Front Cell Neurosci 2024; 18:1367476. [PMID: 38433863 PMCID: PMC10904576 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2024.1367476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
During touch, mechanical forces are converted into electrochemical signals by tactile organs made of neurons, accessory cells, and their shared extracellular spaces. Accessory cells, including Merkel cells, keratinocytes, lamellar cells, and glia, play an important role in the sensation of touch. In some cases, these cells are intrinsically mechanosensitive; however, other roles include the release of chemical messengers, the chemical modification of spaces that are shared with neurons, and the tuning of neural sensitivity by direct physical contact. Despite great progress in the last decade, the precise roles of these cells in the sense of touch remains unclear. Here we review the known and hypothesized contributions of several accessory cells to touch by incorporating research from multiple organisms including C. elegans, D. melanogaster, mammals, avian models, and plants. Several broad parallels are identified including the regulation of extracellular ions and the release of neuromodulators by accessory cells, as well as the emerging potential physical contact between accessory cells and sensory neurons via tethers. Our broader perspective incorporates the importance of accessory cells to the understanding of human touch and pain, as well as to animal touch and its molecular underpinnings, which are underrepresented among the animal welfare literature. A greater understanding of touch, which must include a role for accessory cells, is also relevant to emergent technical applications including prosthetics, virtual reality, and robotics.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Bianchi
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Miami, Miami, FL, United States
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3
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Handler A, Zhang Q, Pang S, Nguyen TM, Iskols M, Nolan-Tamariz M, Cattel S, Plumb R, Sanchez B, Ashjian K, Shotland A, Brown B, Kabeer M, Turecek J, DeLisle MM, Rankin G, Xiang W, Pavarino EC, Africawala N, Santiago C, Lee WCA, Xu CS, Ginty DD. Three-dimensional reconstructions of mechanosensory end organs suggest a unifying mechanism underlying dynamic, light touch. Neuron 2023; 111:3211-3229.e9. [PMID: 37725982 PMCID: PMC10773061 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2023.08.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023]
Abstract
Across mammalian skin, structurally complex and diverse mechanosensory end organs respond to mechanical stimuli and enable our perception of dynamic, light touch. How forces act on morphologically dissimilar mechanosensory end organs of the skin to gate the requisite mechanotransduction channel Piezo2 and excite mechanosensory neurons is not understood. Here, we report high-resolution reconstructions of the hair follicle lanceolate complex, Meissner corpuscle, and Pacinian corpuscle and the subcellular distribution of Piezo2 within them. Across all three end organs, Piezo2 is restricted to the sensory axon membrane, including axon protrusions that extend from the axon body. These protrusions, which are numerous and elaborate extensively within the end organs, tether the axon to resident non-neuronal cells via adherens junctions. These findings support a unified model for dynamic touch in which mechanical stimuli stretch hundreds to thousands of axon protrusions across an end organ, opening proximal, axonal Piezo2 channels and exciting the neuron.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Handler
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Qiyu Zhang
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Song Pang
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - Tri M Nguyen
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Iskols
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Nolan-Tamariz
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Stuart Cattel
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Rebecca Plumb
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Brianna Sanchez
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Karyl Ashjian
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Aria Shotland
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Bartianna Brown
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Madiha Kabeer
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Josef Turecek
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michelle M DeLisle
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Genelle Rankin
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wangchu Xiang
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Elisa C Pavarino
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Nusrat Africawala
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Celine Santiago
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Wei-Chung Allen Lee
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; F.M. Kirby Neurobiology Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - C Shan Xu
- Janelia Research Campus, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Ashburn, VA 20147, USA
| | - David D Ginty
- Department of Neurobiology, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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4
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Handler A, Zhang Q, Pang S, Nguyen TM, Iskols M, Nolan-Tamariz M, Cattel S, Plumb R, Sanchez B, Ashjian K, Shotland A, Brown B, Kabeer M, Turecek J, Rankin G, Xiang W, Pavarino EC, Africawala N, Santiago C, Lee WCA, Shan Xu C, Ginty DD. Three-dimensional reconstructions of mechanosensory end organs suggest a unifying mechanism underlying dynamic, light touch. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.03.17.533188. [PMID: 36993253 PMCID: PMC10055218 DOI: 10.1101/2023.03.17.533188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Specialized mechanosensory end organs within mammalian skin-hair follicle-associated lanceolate complexes, Meissner corpuscles, and Pacinian corpuscles-enable our perception of light, dynamic touch 1 . In each of these end organs, fast-conducting mechanically sensitive neurons, called Aβ low-threshold mechanoreceptors (Aβ LTMRs), associate with resident glial cells, known as terminal Schwann cells (TSCs) or lamellar cells, to form complex axon ending structures. Lanceolate-forming and corpuscle-innervating Aβ LTMRs share a low threshold for mechanical activation, a rapidly adapting (RA) response to force indentation, and high sensitivity to dynamic stimuli 1-6 . How mechanical stimuli lead to activation of the requisite mechanotransduction channel Piezo2 7-15 and Aβ RA-LTMR excitation across the morphologically dissimilar mechanosensory end organ structures is not understood. Here, we report the precise subcellular distribution of Piezo2 and high-resolution, isotropic 3D reconstructions of all three end organs formed by Aβ RA-LTMRs determined by large volume enhanced Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscopy (FIB-SEM) imaging. We found that within each end organ, Piezo2 is enriched along the sensory axon membrane and is minimally or not expressed in TSCs and lamellar cells. We also observed a large number of small cytoplasmic protrusions enriched along the Aβ RA-LTMR axon terminals associated with hair follicles, Meissner corpuscles, and Pacinian corpuscles. These axon protrusions reside within close proximity to axonal Piezo2, occasionally contain the channel, and often form adherens junctions with nearby non-neuronal cells. Our findings support a unified model for Aβ RA-LTMR activation in which axon protrusions anchor Aβ RA-LTMR axon terminals to specialized end organ cells, enabling mechanical stimuli to stretch the axon in hundreds to thousands of sites across an individual end organ and leading to activation of proximal Piezo2 channels and excitation of the neuron.
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5
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Shin SM, Itson-Zoske B, Fan F, Gani U, Rahman M, Hogan QH, Yu H. Peripheral sensory neurons and non-neuronal cells express functional Piezo1 channels. Mol Pain 2023; 19:17448069231174315. [PMID: 37247618 PMCID: PMC10240879 DOI: 10.1177/17448069231174315] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Here, we present evidence showing Piezo1 protein expression in the primary sensory neurons (PSNs) and non-neuronal cells of rat peripheral nervous system. Using a knockdown/knockout validated antibody, we detected Piezo1 immunoreactivity (IR) in ∼60% of PSNs of rat dorsal root ganglia (DRG) with higher IR density in the small- and medium-sized neurons. Piezo1-IR was clearly identified in DRG perineuronal glia, including satellite glial cells (SGCs) and Schwann cells; in sciatic nerve Schwann cells surrounding the axons and cutaneous afferent endings; and in skin epidermal Merkel cells and melanocytes. Neuronal and non-neuronal Piezo1 channels were functional since various cells (dissociated PSNs and SGCs from DRGs, isolated Schwann cells, and primary human melanocytes) exhibited a robust response to Piezo1 agonist Yoda1 by an increase of intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). These responses were abolished by non-specific Piezo1 antagonist GsMTx4. Immunoblots showed elevated Piezo1 protein in DRG proximal to peripheral nerve injury-induced painful neuropathy, while PSNs and SGCs from rats with neuropathic pain showed greater Yoda1-evoked elevation of [Ca2+]i and an increased frequency of cells responding to Yoda1, compared to controls. Sciatic nerve application of GsMTx4 alleviated mechanical hypersensitivity induced by Yoda1. Overall, our data show that Piezo1 is widely expressed by the neuronal and non-neuronal cells in the peripheral sensory pathways and that painful nerve injury appeared associated with activation of Piezo1 in PSNs and peripheral glial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Min Shin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Brandon Itson-Zoske
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Fan Fan
- Department of Physiology, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta University, Augusta, GA, USA
| | - Uarda Gani
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Mahmudur Rahman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Quinn H. Hogan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Hongwei Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
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6
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Drechsel TJ, Zippenfennig C, Schmidt D, Milani TL. The Effect of Subliminal Electrical Noise Stimulation on Plantar Vibration Sensitivity in Persons with Diabetes Mellitus. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10081880. [PMID: 36009427 PMCID: PMC9405277 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10081880] [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: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Subliminal electrical noise (SEN) enhances sensitivity in healthy individuals of various ages. Diabetes and its neurodegenerative profile, such as marked decreases in foot sensitivity, highlights the potential benefits of SEN in such populations. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the effect of SEN on vibration sensitivity in diabetes. Vibration perception thresholds (VPT) and corresponding VPT variations (coefficient of variation, CoV) of two experimental groups with diabetes mellitus were determined using a customized vibration exciter (30 and 200 Hz). Plantar measurements were taken at the metatarsal area with and without SEN stimulation. Wilcoxon signed-rank and t tests were used to test for differences in VPT and CoV within frequencies, between the conditions with and without SEN. We found no statistically significant effects of SEN on VPT and CoV (p > 0.05). CoV showed descriptively lower mean variations of 4 and 7% for VPT in experiment 1. SEN did not demonstrate improvements in VPT in diabetic individuals. Interestingly, taking into account the most severely affected (neuropathy severity) individuals, SEN seems to positively influence vibratory perception. However, the descriptively reduced variations in experiment 1 indicate that participants felt more consistently. It is possible that the effect of SEN on thick, myelinated Aβ-fibers is only marginally present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina J. Drechsel
- Department of Human Locomotion, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-371-531-30022
| | - Claudio Zippenfennig
- Department of Human Locomotion, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Daniel Schmidt
- Motor Control, Cognition and Neurophysiology, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany
| | - Thomas L. Milani
- Department of Human Locomotion, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany
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7
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Gangadharan V, Zheng H, Taberner FJ, Landry J, Nees TA, Pistolic J, Agarwal N, Männich D, Benes V, Helmstaedter M, Ommer B, Lechner SG, Kuner T, Kuner R. Neuropathic pain caused by miswiring and abnormal end organ targeting. Nature 2022; 606:137-145. [PMID: 35614217 PMCID: PMC9159955 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-04777-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Nerve injury leads to chronic pain and exaggerated sensitivity to gentle touch (allodynia) as well as a loss of sensation in the areas in which injured and non-injured nerves come together1-3. The mechanisms that disambiguate these mixed and paradoxical symptoms are unknown. Here we longitudinally and non-invasively imaged genetically labelled populations of fibres that sense noxious stimuli (nociceptors) and gentle touch (low-threshold afferents) peripherally in the skin for longer than 10 months after nerve injury, while simultaneously tracking pain-related behaviour in the same mice. Fully denervated areas of skin initially lost sensation, gradually recovered normal sensitivity and developed marked allodynia and aversion to gentle touch several months after injury. This reinnervation-induced neuropathic pain involved nociceptors that sprouted into denervated territories precisely reproducing the initial pattern of innervation, were guided by blood vessels and showed irregular terminal connectivity in the skin and lowered activation thresholds mimicking low-threshold afferents. By contrast, low-threshold afferents-which normally mediate touch sensation as well as allodynia in intact nerve territories after injury4-7-did not reinnervate, leading to an aberrant innervation of tactile end organs such as Meissner corpuscles with nociceptors alone. Genetic ablation of nociceptors fully abrogated reinnervation allodynia. Our results thus reveal the emergence of a form of chronic neuropathic pain that is driven by structural plasticity, abnormal terminal connectivity and malfunction of nociceptors during reinnervation, and provide a mechanistic framework for the paradoxical sensory manifestations that are observed clinically and can impose a heavy burden on patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijayan Gangadharan
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Max Planck Institute for Brain Research, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hongwei Zheng
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Francisco J Taberner
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Instituto de Neurociencias de Alicante, Universidad Miguel Hernández-CSIC, San Juan de Alicante, Spain
| | - Jonathan Landry
- Genomics Core Facility, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Timo A Nees
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jelena Pistolic
- Genomics Core Facility, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Nitin Agarwal
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Deepitha Männich
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Vladimir Benes
- Genomics Core Facility, European Molecular Biology Laboratory, Heidelberg, Germany
| | | | - Björn Ommer
- Interdisciplinary Center for Scientific Computing, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stefan G Lechner
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thomas Kuner
- Department of Functional Neuroanatomy, Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Rohini Kuner
- Institute of Pharmacology, Heidelberg University, Heidelberg, Germany.
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8
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Cranfill SL, Luo W. Nerve regrowth can be painful. Nature 2022; 606:32-33. [PMID: 35614254 DOI: 10.1038/d41586-022-01243-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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9
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Ziolkowski LH, Gracheva EO, Bagriantsev SN. Tactile sensation in birds: Physiological insights from avian mechanoreceptors. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 74:102548. [PMID: 35489134 DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.102548] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The sense of touch is ubiquitous in vertebrates and relies upon the detection of mechanical forces in the skin by the tactile end-organs of low-threshold mechanoreceptors. Significant progress has been made in understanding the mechanism of tactile end-organ function using mammalian models, but the detailed mechanics of touch sensation in Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles, the principal detectors of transient touch and vibration, remain obscure. The avian homologs of these corpuscles present an opportunity for functional study of mechanosensation in these structures, due to their relative accessibility and high abundance in the bill skin of tactile-foraging waterfowl. Here, we review the current knowledge of mechanosensory end-organs in birds and highlight the utility of the avian model to understand general principles of touch detection in the glabrous skin of vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luke H Ziolkowski
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Elena O Gracheva
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA; Program in Cellular Neuroscience, Neurodegeneration and Repair, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - Sviatoslav N Bagriantsev
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
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10
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Nielsen SW, Lindberg S, Ruhlmann CHB, Eckhoff L, Herrstedt J. Addressing Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy Using Multi-Frequency Vibrometry and Patient-Reported Outcomes. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11071862. [PMID: 35407470 PMCID: PMC8999713 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11071862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) The study evaluated correlations between multi-frequency vibrometry (MF-V) and the measure of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy developed by the European Organization for the Research and Treatment of Cancer (CIPN18). (2) Patients with cancer scheduled to undergo treatment with capecitabine and oxaliplatin (CAPOX) or carboplatin and paclitaxel (Carbo-Tax) were recruited in a prospective, observational study with MF-V and the CIPN18 from baseline to one year after end of treatment. (3) The study recruited 31 evaluable patients. All MF-V measurements correlated significantly with the CIPN18 scores (r = 0.25−0.48, p > 0.003), with a low frequency (32 Hz) from metatarsals showing the best correlation coefficients (0.059 Z-score per CIPN18 point change, r = 0.48, CI-95 = [0.32; 0.60], p > 0.0001). The largest change in MF-V scores from baseline was seen in low-frequency VPTs taken from metatarsals at 8 Hz three months after end of treatment (from −0.26, CI-95 [−0.85, 0.38] to 1.15, CI-95 [0.53, 1.84]) for patients treated with oxaliplatin and at 32 Hz one year after end of treatment (from 0.09, CI-95 [−0.56, 0.77] to 0.88, CI-95 [0.34, 1.47]) for patients treated with paclitaxel. (4) Low-frequency vibration perception thresholds (8 and 32 Hz) correlated better with CIPN18 scores than high-frequency ones (128 and 250 Hz). If validated, this finding will advance CIPN pathophysiological understanding and inform the development of assessment methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian W. Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark; (S.L.); (J.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Sanne Lindberg
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark; (S.L.); (J.H.)
| | - Christina Halgaard Bruvik Ruhlmann
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, 5000 Odense C, Denmark;
- Department of Oncology R, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense C, Denmark;
| | - Lise Eckhoff
- Department of Oncology R, Odense University Hospital, 5000 Odense C, Denmark;
| | - Jørn Herrstedt
- Department of Clinical Oncology and Palliative Care, Zealand University Hospital, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark; (S.L.); (J.H.)
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
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11
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Suazo I, Vega JA, García-Mesa Y, García-Piqueras J, García-Suárez O, Cobo T. The Lamellar Cells of Vertebrate Meissner and Pacinian Corpuscles: Development, Characterization, and Functions. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:790130. [PMID: 35356056 PMCID: PMC8959428 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.790130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sensory corpuscles, or cutaneous end-organ complexes, are complex structures localized at the periphery of Aβ-axon terminals from primary sensory neurons that primarily work as low-threshold mechanoreceptors. Structurally, they consist, in addition to the axons, of non-myelinating Schwann-like cells (terminal glial cells) and endoneurial- and perineurial-related cells. The terminal glial cells are the so-called lamellar cells in Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles. Lamellar cells are variably arranged in sensory corpuscles as a “coin stack” in the Meissner corpuscles or as an “onion bulb” in the Pacinian ones. Nevertheless, the origin and protein profile of the lamellar cells in both morphotypes of sensory corpuscles is quite similar, although it differs in the expression of mechano-gated ion channels as well as in the composition of the extracellular matrix between the cells. The lamellar cells have been regarded as supportive cells playing a passive role in the process of genesis of the action potential, i.e., the mechanotransduction process. However, they express ion channels related to the mechano–electric transduction and show a synapse-like mechanism that suggest neurotransmission at the genesis of the electrical action potential. This review updates the current knowledge about the embryonic origin, development modifications, spatial arrangement, ultrastructural characteristics, and protein profile of the lamellar cells of cutaneous end-organ complexes focusing on Meissner and Pacinian morphotypes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iván Suazo
- Grupo SINPOS, Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Faculcultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - José A. Vega
- Grupo SINPOS, Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
- Faculcultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Autónoma de Chile, Santiago, Chile
- *Correspondence: José A. Vega,
| | - Yolanda García-Mesa
- Grupo SINPOS, Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Jorge García-Piqueras
- Grupo SINPOS, Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Olivia García-Suárez
- Grupo SINPOS, Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
| | - Teresa Cobo
- Departamento de Cirugía y Especialidades Médico-Quirúrgicas, Universidad de Oviedo, Oviedo, Spain
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12
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Ramnarine SR, Dougherty PM, Rolke R, Williams LJ, Alessi-Fox C, Coleman AJ, Longo C, Colvin LA, Fallon MT. OUP accepted manuscript. Oncologist 2022; 27:e671-e680. [PMID: 35706109 PMCID: PMC9355818 DOI: 10.1093/oncolo/oyac106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background There is a lack of standardized objective and reliable assessment tools for chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). In vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) imaging offers a non-invasive method to identify peripheral neuropathy markers, namely Meissner’s corpuscles (MC). This study investigated the feasibility and value of RCM in CIPN. Patients and Methods Reflectance confocal microscopy was performed on the fingertip to evaluate MC density in 45 healthy controls and 9 patients with cancer (prior, during, and post-chemotherapy). Quantification was completed by 2 reviewers (one blinded), with maximum MC count/3 × 3 mm image reported. Quantitative Sensory Testing (QST; thermal and mechanical detection thresholds), Grooved pegboard test, and patient-reported outcomes measures (PROMS) were conducted for comparison. Results In controls (25 females, 20 males; 24-81 years), females exhibited greater mean MC density compared with males (49.9 ± 7.1 vs 30.9 ± 4.2 MC/3 × 3 mm; P = .03). Differences existed across age by decade (P < .0001). Meissner’s corpuscle density was correlated with mechanical detection (ρ = −0.51), warm detection (ρ = −0.47), cold pain (ρ = 0.49) thresholds (P < .01); and completion time on the Grooved pegboard test in both hands (P ≤ .02). At baseline, patients had reduced MC density vs age and gender-matched controls (P = .03). Longitudinal assessment of MC density revealed significant relationships with QST and PROMS. Inter-rater reliability of MC count showed an intraclass correlation of 0.96 (P < .0001). Conclusions The findings support the clinical utility of RCM in CIPN as it provides meaningful markers of sensory nerve dysfunction. Novel, prospective assessment demonstrated the ability to detect subclinical deficits in patients at risk of CIPN and potential to monitor neuropathy progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabrina R Ramnarine
- Corresponding author: Sabrina R. Ramnarine MBChB, PhD, CLIMP, Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, Great Maze Pond, London SE1 9RT, UK. Tel: +44 207188 7188; ,
| | - Patrick M Dougherty
- Department of Pain Medicine, Division of Anesthesiology, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Roman Rolke
- Department of Palliative Medicine, Medical Faculty RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Linda J Williams
- Edinburgh Clinical Trials Unit, Usher Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Andrew J Coleman
- Clinical Imaging and Medical Physics, Guys’ and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Caterina Longo
- Department of Dermatology, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
- Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale-IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Centro Oncologico ad Alta Tecnologia Diagnostica-Dermatologia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Lesley A Colvin
- Division of Population Health and Genomics, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - Marie T Fallon
- Edinburgh Cancer Research UK Centre, MRC Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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13
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Stucky CL, Mikesell AR. Cutaneous pain in disorders affecting peripheral nerves. Neurosci Lett 2021; 765:136233. [PMID: 34506882 PMCID: PMC8579816 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2021.136233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Our ability to quickly detect and respond to harmful environmental stimuli is vital for our safety and survival. This inherent acute pain detection is a "gift" because it both protects our body from harm and allows healing of damaged tissues [1]. Damage to tissues from trauma or disease can result in distorted or amplified nociceptor signaling and sensitization of the spinal cord and brain (Central Nervous System; CNS) pathways to normal input from light touch mechanoreceptors. Together, these processes can result in nagging to unbearable chronic pain and extreme sensitivity to light skin touch (allodynia). Unlike acute protective pain, chronic pain and allodynia serve no useful purpose and can severely reduce the quality of life of an affected person. Chronic pain can arise from impairment to peripheral neurons, a phenomenon called "peripheral neuropathic pain." Peripheral neuropathic pain can be caused by many insults that directly affect peripheral sensory neurons, including mechanical trauma, metabolic imbalance (e.g., diabetes), autoimmune diseases, chemotherapeutic agents, viral infections (e.g., shingles). These insults cause "acquired" neuropathies such as small-fiber neuropathies, diabetic neuropathy, chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and post herpetic neuralgia. Peripheral neuropathic pain can also be caused by genetic factors and result in hereditary neuropathies that include Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, rare channelopathies and Fabry disease. Many acquired and hereditary neuropathies affect the skin, our largest organ and protector of nearly our entire body. Here we review how cutaneous nociception (pain perceived from the skin) is altered following diseases that affect peripheral nerves that innervate the skin. We provide an overview of how noxious stimuli are detected and encoded by molecular transducers on subtypes of cutaneous afferent endings and conveyed to the CNS. Next, we discuss several acquired and hereditary diseases and disorders that cause painful or insensate (lack of sensation) cutaneous peripheral neuropathies, the symptoms and percepts patients experience, and how cutaneous afferents and other peripheral cell types are altered in function in these disorders. We highlight exciting new research areas that implicate non-neuronal skin cells, particularly keratinocytes, in cutaneous nociception and peripheral neuropathies. Finally, we conclude with ideas for innovative new directions, areas of unmet need, and potential opportunities for novel cutaneous therapeutics that may avoid CNS side effects, as well as ideas for improved translation of mechanisms identified in preclinical models to patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheryl L Stucky
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States.
| | - Alexander R Mikesell
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, 8701 Watertown Plank Road, Milwaukee, WI 53226, United States
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14
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Tactile sensitivity in the rat: a correlation between receptor structure and function. Exp Brain Res 2021; 239:3457-3469. [PMID: 34519842 PMCID: PMC8599332 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-021-06193-7] [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: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
Single cutaneous fibers were recorded in the median nerve of the deeply anesthetized rat and the receptor morphology in the forelimb glabrous skin was analyzed to establish a probable correlation between receptor anatomy and physiology. Receptor complexes in the glabrous skin of the rat forelimb were stained immunologically with antibodies NF-200 and PGP-9.5, confirming the presence of Meissner corpuscles and Merkel complexes within the dermal papilla similar to other mammals including primates. Both the Meissner corpuscles and Merkel cell complexes were sparse and located in the pyramidal-shaped palmer pads and the apex of the digit extremities. They were almost totally absent elsewhere in the glabrous skin. No Ruffini receptors or Pacinian corpuscles were found in our samples. A total of 92 cutaneous fibers were retained long enough for analysis. Thirty-five (38%) were characterized as rapidly adapting fibers (RA) and 57 (62%) were slowly adapting afferents (SA). Despite the very limited number of receptors at the tip of the digit, RA receptors outnumbered SA fibers 3.2/1.0. In contrast, SA fibers on the thenar pad outnumbered RA receptors by a ratio of 3–1. Despite the very limited number of low threshold mechanoreceptors in the glabrous skin of the rat forelimb, the prevalence of SA afferents in the palm and more frequent occurrence of RA afferents in the digit extremity suggest differences in functionality both for locomotion and object manipulation.
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15
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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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16
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Handler A, Ginty DD. The mechanosensory neurons of touch and their mechanisms of activation. Nat Rev Neurosci 2021; 22:521-537. [PMID: 34312536 PMCID: PMC8485761 DOI: 10.1038/s41583-021-00489-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 127] [Impact Index Per Article: 42.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Our sense of touch emerges from an array of mechanosensory structures residing within the fabric of our skin. These tactile end organ structures convert innocuous forces acting on the skin into electrical signals that propagate to the CNS via the axons of low-threshold mechanoreceptors (LTMRs). Our rich capacity for tactile discrimination arises from the dissimilar intrinsic properties of the LTMR subtypes that innervate different regions of the skin and the structurally distinct end organ complexes with which they associate. These end organ structures comprise a range of non-neuronal cell types, which may themselves actively contribute to the transformation of tactile forces into neural impulses within the LTMR afferents. Although the mechanism and the site of transduction across end organs remain unclear, PIEZO2 has emerged as the principal mechanosensitive channel involved in light touch of the skin. Here we review the physiological properties of LTMR subtypes and discuss how features of their cutaneous end organ complexes shape subtype-specific tuning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annie Handler
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David D Ginty
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.
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17
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Drechsel TJ, Monteiro RL, Zippenfennig C, Ferreira JSSP, Milani TL, Sacco ICN. Low and High Frequency Vibration Perception Thresholds Can Improve the Diagnosis of Diabetic Neuropathy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:3073. [PMID: 34300239 PMCID: PMC8304943 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10143073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies demonstrate neuropathic changes with respect to vibration sensitivity for different measurement frequencies. This study investigates the relationship between vibration perception thresholds (VPTs) at low and high frequencies at two plantar locations and diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) severity in diabetes mellitus (DM) subjects with DPN. We examine differences of VPTs between participants with DM, with DPN, as well as healthy controls. The influence of anthropometric, demographic parameters, and DM duration on VPTs is studied. Thirty-three healthy control group subjects (CG: 56.3 ± 9.9 years) and 33 with DM are studied. DM participants are subdivided into DM group (DM without DPN, n = 20, 53.3 ± 15.1 years), and DPN group (DM with DPN, n = 13, 61.0 ± 14.5 years). VPTs are measured at the first metatarsal head (MTH1) and heel (30 Hz, 200 Hz), using a customized vibration exciter. Spearman and Pearson correlations are used to identify relationships between VPTs and clinical parameters. ANOVAs are calculated to compare VPTs among groups. Significant correlations are observed between DPN severity (by fuzzy scores) and VPTs at both locations and frequencies (MTH1_30 Hz vs. fuzzy: r = 0.68, p = 0.011; Heel_30 Hz vs. fuzzy: r = 0.66, p = 0.014; MTH1_200 Hz vs. fuzzy: r = 0.73, p = 0.005; Heel_200 Hz vs. fuzzy: r = 0.60, p = 0.032). VPTs in CG and DM groups are significantly smaller than the DPN group, showing higher contrasts for the 30 Hz compared to the 200 Hz measurement. The correlations between fuzzy scores and VPTs confirm the relevance of using low and high frequencies to assess a comprehensive foot sensitivity status in people with DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina J. Drechsel
- Department of Human Locomotion, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (C.Z.); (T.L.M.)
| | - Renan L. Monteiro
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech, and Occupational Therapy, Faculdade de Medicina, Universdade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05360-160, Brazil; (R.L.M.); (J.S.S.P.F.); (I.C.N.S.)
| | - Claudio Zippenfennig
- Department of Human Locomotion, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (C.Z.); (T.L.M.)
| | - Jane S. S. P. Ferreira
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech, and Occupational Therapy, Faculdade de Medicina, Universdade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05360-160, Brazil; (R.L.M.); (J.S.S.P.F.); (I.C.N.S.)
| | - Thomas L. Milani
- Department of Human Locomotion, Faculty of Behavioral and Social Sciences, Institute of Human Movement Science and Health, Chemnitz University of Technology, 09107 Chemnitz, Germany; (C.Z.); (T.L.M.)
| | - Isabel C. N. Sacco
- Department of Physical Therapy, Speech, and Occupational Therapy, Faculdade de Medicina, Universdade de São Paulo, São Paulo 05360-160, Brazil; (R.L.M.); (J.S.S.P.F.); (I.C.N.S.)
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18
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Ticona LA, Sánchez ÁR, Estrada CT, Palomino OM. Identification of TRPV1 Ion Channels Agonists of Tropaeolum tuberosum in Human Skin Keratinocytes. PLANTA MEDICA 2021; 87:383-394. [PMID: 33007786 DOI: 10.1055/a-1264-0572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Tropaeolum tuberosum, commonly known as Mashua, is an herbal remedy used in traditional Andean medicine for the relief of kidney and bladder pain, as well as contusions. This study aimed to evaluate the fractions and isolated compounds from T. tuberosum with analgesic activity mediated by the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 receptor. A bioguided phytochemical analysis based on NMR/MS was performed to identify the compounds of the n-heptane fractions from samples of purple tubers of T. tuberosum. The transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 agonist and antagonist activity were assessed through the measurement of intracellular Ca2+ in HEK001 cells. The chemical structure determination led to the identification of two alkamides: N-(2-hydroxyethyl)-7Z,10Z,13Z,16Z-docosatetraenamide (1: ) and N-oleoyldopamine (2: ). Both compounds induced increased intracellular calcium flow with IC50 values of 3.2 nM and 7.9 nM, respectively, thus activating the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 receptor. Our research is the first report to show that these two compounds isolated from T. tuberosum can act as agonists of the transient receptor potential vanilloid-1 receptor, providing scientific evidence for the traditional use of this species in pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Apaza Ticona
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University Autónoma of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Rumbero Sánchez
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Faculty of Sciences, University Autónoma of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Olga M Palomino
- Department of Pharmacology, Pharmacognosy and Botany, Faculty of Pharmacy, University Complutense of Madrid, Madrid, Spain
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19
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The Human Cutaneous Sensory Corpuscles: An Update. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10020227. [PMID: 33435193 PMCID: PMC7827880 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10020227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Sensory corpuscles of human skin are terminals of primary mechanoreceptive neurons associated with non-neuronal cells that function as low-threshold mechanoreceptors. Structurally, they consist of an extreme tip of a mechanosensory axon and nonmyelinating peripheral glial cells variably arranged according to the morphotype of the sensory corpuscle, all covered for connective cells of endoneurial and/or perineurial origin. Although the pathologies of sensitive corpuscles are scarce and almost never severe, adequate knowledge of the structure and immunohistochemical profile of these formations is essential for dermatologists and pathologists. In fact, since sensory corpuscles and nerves share a basic structure and protein composition, a cutaneous biopsy may be a complementary method for the analysis of nerve involvement in peripheral neuropathies, systemic diseases, and several pathologies of the central nervous system. Thus, a biopsy of cutaneous sensory corpuscles can provide information for the diagnosis, evolution, and effectiveness of treatments of some pathologies in which they are involved. Here, we updated and summarized the current knowledge about the immunohistochemistry of human sensory corpuscles with the aim to provide information to dermatologists and skin pathologists.
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20
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Weng T, Wu P, Zhang W, Zheng Y, Li Q, Jin R, Chen H, You C, Guo S, Han C, Wang X. Regeneration of skin appendages and nerves: current status and further challenges. J Transl Med 2020; 18:53. [PMID: 32014004 PMCID: PMC6996190 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-020-02248-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue-engineered skin (TES), as an analogue of native skin, is promising for wound repair and regeneration. However, a major drawback of TES products is a lack of skin appendages and nerves to enhance skin healing, structural integrity and skin vitality. Skin appendages and nerves are important constituents for fully functional skin. To date, many studies have yielded remarkable results in the field of skin appendages reconstruction and nerve regeneration. However, patients often complain about a loss of skin sensation and even cutaneous chronic pain. Restoration of pain, temperature, and touch perceptions should now be a major challenge to solve in order to improve patients’ quality of life. Current strategies to create skin appendages and sensory nerve regeneration are mainly based on different types of seeding cells, scaffold materials, bioactive factors and involved signaling pathways. This article provides a comprehensive overview of different strategies for, and advances in, skin appendages and sensory nerve regeneration, which is an important issue in the field of tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tingting Weng
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Pan Wu
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Yurong Zheng
- Department of Breast Surgery, Zhejiang Cancer Hospital, Hangzhou, 310022, China
| | - Qiong Li
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Ronghua Jin
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Haojiao Chen
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chuangang You
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Songxue Guo
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Chunmao Han
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China
| | - Xingang Wang
- Department of Burns & Wound Care Center, Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University, College of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310009, China.
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21
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Elofsson R, Kröger RHH. A new type of somatosensory organ in the nasolabial skin of the dog. J Morphol 2020; 281:413-419. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.21108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2019] [Revised: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Rolf Elofsson
- Unit of Functional Zoology, Department of BiologyLund University Lund Sweden
| | - Ronald H. H. Kröger
- Unit of Functional Zoology, Department of BiologyLund University Lund Sweden
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22
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Moehring F, Halder P, Seal RP, Stucky CL. Uncovering the Cells and Circuits of Touch in Normal and Pathological Settings. Neuron 2019; 100:349-360. [PMID: 30359601 DOI: 10.1016/j.neuron.2018.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2018] [Revised: 10/08/2018] [Accepted: 10/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The sense of touch is fundamental as it provides vital, moment-to-moment information about the nature of our physical environment. Primary sensory neurons provide the basis for this sensation in the periphery; however, recent work demonstrates that touch transduction mechanisms also occur upstream of the sensory neurons via non-neuronal cells such as Merkel cells and keratinocytes. Within the spinal cord, deep dorsal horn circuits transmit innocuous touch centrally and also transform touch into pain in the setting of injury. Here non-neuronal cells play a key role in the induction and maintenance of persistent mechanical pain. This review highlights recent advances in our understanding of mechanosensation, including a growing appreciation for the role of non-neuronal cells in both touch and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francie Moehring
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Priyabrata Halder
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Rebecca P Seal
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA; Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
| | - Cheryl L Stucky
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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23
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Crowley M, Lilak A, Ahloy-Dallaire J, Darian-Smith C. Spinal cord injury transiently alters Meissner's corpuscle density in the digit pads of macaque monkeys. J Comp Neurol 2019; 527:1901-1912. [PMID: 30707439 DOI: 10.1002/cne.24655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2018] [Revised: 01/14/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Meissner's corpuscles (MCs) are cutaneous mechanoreceptors found in glabrous skin and are exquisitely sensitive to light touch. Along with other receptors, they provide continuous sensory feedback that informs the execution of fine manual behaviors. Following cervical spinal deafferentation injuries, hand use can be initially severely impaired, but substantial recovery occurs over many weeks, even when ~95% of the original input is permanently lost. While most SCI research focuses on central neural pathway responses, little is known about the role of peripheral receptors in facilitating recovery. We begin to address this by asking the following: (1) What is the normal pattern of MCs in the distal pads of all five digits in the macaque monkey (with hands similar to humans)? (2) What happens to these receptors 4-5 months following either a dorsal column lesion (DCL) or a combined dorsal root/dorsal column lesion (DRL/DCL), when functional recovery is largely complete? (3) What happens chronically, 12-14 months later? Our findings show that in normal monkeys, MCs are densest in the distal pads of the opposing thumb and index finger, with the greatest concentration on the thumb. This reflects a close functional relationship between receptor density and precision grip. At 4-5 months post-injury, there was a (~30%) loss of MCs on the deafferented digits of the injured hand compared with the contralateral side. However, 12-14 months after a DRL/DCL, receptor densities had returned to normal levels. Our findings indicate a complex peripheral response and highlight the importance of the periphery in shaping central changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Crowley
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Alayna Lilak
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Jamie Ahloy-Dallaire
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California.,Département des sciences animales, Université Laval, Québec, Quebec, Canada
| | - Corinna Darian-Smith
- Department of Comparative Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Rice FL, Castel D, Ruggiero E, Dockum M, Houk G, Sabbag I, Albrecht PJ, Meilin S. Human-like cutaneous neuropathologies associated with a porcine model of peripheral neuritis: A translational platform for neuropathic pain. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2019; 5:100021. [PMID: 31194066 PMCID: PMC6550106 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2018.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite enormous investment in research and development of novel treatments, there remains a lack of predictable, effective, and safe therapeutics for human chronic neuropathic pain (NP) afflictions. NP continues to increase among the population and treatments remain a major unmet public health care need. In recent years, numerous costly (time and money) failures have occurred attempting to translate successful animal pain model results, typically using rodents, to human clinical trials. These continued failures point to the essential need for better animal models of human pain conditions. To address this challenge, we have previously developed a peripheral neuritis trauma (PNT) model of chronic pain induced by a proximal sciatic nerve irritation in pigs, which have a body size, metabolism, skin structure, and cutaneous innervation more similar to humans. Here, we set out to determine the extent that the PNT model presents with cutaneous neuropathologies consistent with those associated with human chronic NP afflictions. Exactly as is performed in human skin biopsies, extensive quantitative multi-molecular immunofluorescence analyses of porcine skin biopsies were performed to assess cutaneous innervation and skin structure. ChemoMorphometric Analysis (CMA) results demonstrated a significant reduction in small caliber intraepidermal nerve fiber (IENF) innervation, altered dermal vascular innervation, and aberrant analgesic/algesic neurochemical properties among epidermal keratinocytes, which are implicated in modulating sensory innervation. These comprehensive pathologic changes very closely resemble those observed from CMA of human skin biopsies collected from NP afflictions. The results indicate that the porcine PNT model is more appropriate for translational NP research compared with commonly utilized rodent models. Because the PNT model creates cutaneous innervation and keratinocyte immunolabeling alterations consistent with human NP conditions, use of this animal model for NP testing and treatment response characteristics will likely provide more realistic results to direct successful translation to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank L. Rice
- Neuroscience & Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
- Division of Health Sciences, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - David Castel
- The Neufeld Cardiac Research Institute, Sheba Medical Centre, Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Elizabeth Ruggiero
- Neuroscience & Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Marilyn Dockum
- Neuroscience & Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - George Houk
- Neuroscience & Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Itai Sabbag
- Lahav Research Institute, Kibutz Lahav, Negev 85335, Israel
| | - Phillip J. Albrecht
- Neuroscience & Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
- Division of Health Sciences, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY 12144, United States
| | - Sigal Meilin
- MD Biosciences, Neurology R&D Division, Nes-Ziona 74140, Israel
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Del Fiacco M, Serra MP, Boi M, Poddighe L, Demontis R, Carai A, Quartu M. TRPV1-Like Immunoreactivity in the Human Locus K, a Distinct Subregion of the Cuneate Nucleus. Cells 2018; 7:cells7070072. [PMID: 29986526 PMCID: PMC6071077 DOI: 10.3390/cells7070072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The presence of transient receptor potential vanilloid type-1 receptor (TRPV1)-like immunoreactivity (LI), in the form of nerve fibres and terminals, is shown in a set of discrete gray matter subregions placed in the territory of the human cuneate nucleus. We showed previously that those subregions share neurochemical and structural features with the protopathic nuclei and, after the ancient name of our town, collectively call them Locus Karalis, and briefly Locus K. TRPV1-LI in the Locus K is codistributed, though not perfectly overlapped, with that of the neuropeptides calcitonin gene-related peptide and substance P, the topography of the elements immunoreactive to the three markers, in relation to each other, reflecting that previously described in the caudal spinal trigeminal nucleus. Myelin stainings show that myelinated fibres, abundant in the cuneate, gracile and trigeminal magnocellular nuclei, are scarce in the Locus K as in the trigeminal substantia gelatinosa. Morphometric analysis shows that cell size and density of Locus K neurons are consistent with those of the trigeminal substantia gelatinosa and significantly different from those of the magnocellular trigeminal, solitary and dorsal column nuclei. We propose that Locus K is a special component of the human dorsal column nuclei. Its functional role remains to be determined, but TRPV1 appears to play a part in it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Del Fiacco
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Maria Pina Serra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Marianna Boi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Laura Poddighe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Roberto Demontis
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Antonio Carai
- Department of Medical Sciences and Public Health, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
| | - Marina Quartu
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Cagliari, Cittadella Universitaria di Monserrato, 09042 Monserrato (CA), Italy.
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Tremp M, Wang W, Oranges CM, Schaefer DJ, Wang W, Kalbermatten DF. Evaluation of the Neo-umbilicus Cutaneous Sensitivity Following Abdominoplasty. Aesthetic Plast Surg 2017; 41:1382-1388. [PMID: 28791469 DOI: 10.1007/s00266-017-0951-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abdominal cutaneous sensitivity loss after abdominoplasty is an undesirable outcome. However, little is known in the literature about sensitivity changes of the neo-umbilicus after abdominoplasty. The aim of this study was to evaluate post-abdominoplasty cutaneous sensitivity of the neo-umbilicus using clinical, quantitative, and reproducible methods. METHODS Patients who underwent abdominoplasty were included, whereas the control group consisted of healthy volunteers with similar demographic characteristics but who did not undergo abdominoplasty. The umbilicus was divided into five zones, and superficial tactile sensitivity and spatial orientation were assessed subjectively (score 1-4) and objectively (Semmes-Weinstein monofilament examination). RESULTS Twenty patients (45 ± 12 years) operated on consecutively between April 2012 and May 2016 and 14 healthy volunteers in the control group (39 ± 9 years) could be included. Although there were statistically significant differences (p = 0.0005) in the average cutaneous pressure thresholds between the control group (0.4 g/mm2, range 0.07-2 g/mm2) and the study group (0.4 g/mm2, range 0.07-4 g/mm2), patient satisfaction after a mean follow-up of 33 ± 16 months (range 10-62 months) was acceptable (mean satisfaction score 1.8 ± 0.7). Furthermore, spatial perceptions were precise in all patients and similar to the control group. CONCLUSION Our long-term results indicate that spontaneous reinnervation of the neo-umbilicus after abdominoplasty together with accurate spatial orientation can occur. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266 .
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Byers MR, Cornel LM. Multiple complex somatosensory systems in mature rat molars defined by immunohistochemistry. Arch Oral Biol 2017; 85:84-97. [PMID: 29035722 DOI: 10.1016/j.archoralbio.2017.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2017] [Revised: 08/24/2017] [Accepted: 09/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Intradental sensory receptors trigger painful sensations and unperceived mechanosensitivity, but the receptor bases for those functions are only partly defined. We present new evidence here concerning complex endings of myelinated axons in rat molars. DESIGN We sectioned mature rat jaws in sagittal and transverse planes to analyze neural immunoreactivity (IR) for parvalbumin, peripherin, neurofilament protein, neurotrophin receptors, synaptophysin, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), or mas-related g-protein-receptor-d (Mrgprd). RESULTS We found two complex sensory systems in mature rat molar dentin that labeled with neurofilament protein-IR, plus either parvalbumin-IR or peripherin-IR. The parvalbumin-IR system made extensively branched, beaded endings focused into dentin throughout each pulp horn. The peripherin-IR system primarily made unbeaded, fork-shaped dentinal endings scattered throughout crown including cervical regions. Both of these systems differed from neuropeptide CGRP-IR. In molar pulp we found peripherin- and parvalbumin-IR layered endings, either near special horizontal plexus arrays or in small coiled endings near tangled plexus, each with specific foci for specific pulp horns. Parvalbumin-IR nerve fibers had Aβ axons (5-7μm diameter), while peripherin-IR axons were thinner Aδ size (2-5μm). Mechano-nociceptive Mrgprd-IR was only found in peripherin-IR axons. CONCLUSIONS Complex somatosensory receptors in rat molars include two types of dentinal endings that both differ from CGRP-IR endings, and at least two newly defined types of pulpal endings. The PV-IR neurons with their widely branched, synaptophysin-rich, intradentinal beaded endings are good candidates for endodontic non-nociceptive, low threshold, unperceived mechanoreceptors. The complex molar dentinal and pulpal sensory systems were not found in rat incisors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret R Byers
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, Box 356540, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-6540, USA.
| | - Leanne M Cornel
- Department of Anesthesiology & Pain Medicine, Box 356540, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195-6540, USA
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Creigh PD, McDermott MP, Sowden JE, Ferguson M, Herrmann DN. In-vivo reflectance confocal microscopy of Meissner's corpuscles in diabetic distal symmetric polyneuropathy. J Neurol Sci 2017; 378:213-219. [PMID: 28566167 DOI: 10.1016/j.jns.2017.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2016] [Revised: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 05/11/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate in-vivo reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) of Meissner's corpuscles (MC) in diabetic distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSP). METHODS Forty-three adults with diabetes and 21 control subjects underwent RCM of MC density at the fingertip of digit V, thenar eminence (TE), and arch of the foot, ankle skin biopsy for epidermal nerve fiber density (ENFD), electrophysiological studies, monofilament threshold testing, and timed vibration at the toe. Subjects with diabetes were subdivided into groups with and without clinical DSP using the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) case definition and neuropathy outcomes were compared across groups. RESULTS Both diabetic groups (with and without AAN clinical DSP criteria) had objective evidence of peripheral sensory involvement using conventional sensory measures, although those with clinical DSP criteria had greater abnormalities. MC densities were lower in the entire diabetic group at the TE and digit V relative to controls. MC densities at all imaging sites were associated with corresponding conventional sensory measures. MC densities were reduced in subjects without AAN clinical DSP criteria at the TE and digit V compared to controls whereas conventional upper limb sensory measures did not differ between these groups. CONCLUSIONS In-vivo RCM of MC density at digit V is a non-invasive, painless, objective marker in diabetes that offers a window into early large fiber sensory nerve terminal loss. Further studies are needed to determine whether RCM of MCs can identify quantitative changes in DSP associated with disease progression or treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter D Creigh
- University of Rochester, Department of Neurology, United States.
| | - Michael P McDermott
- University of Rochester, Department of Neurology, United States; University of Rochester, Department of Biostatistics and Computational Biology, United States.
| | - Janet E Sowden
- University of Rochester, Department of Neurology, United States.
| | - Michele Ferguson
- University of Rochester, Department of Neurology, United States.
| | - David N Herrmann
- University of Rochester, Department of Neurology, United States.
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Alonso-González P, Cabo R, San José I, Gago A, Suazo IC, García-Suárez O, Cobo J, Vega JA. Human Digital Meissner Corpuscles Display Immunoreactivity for the Multifunctional Ion Channels Trpc6 and Trpv4. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2017; 300:1022-1031. [DOI: 10.1002/ar.23522] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2015] [Revised: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Roberto Cabo
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOs; Universidad de Oviedo; Spain
| | - Isabel San José
- Departamento de Anatomía y Radiología; Universidad de Valladolid; Spain
| | - Angel Gago
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOs; Universidad de Oviedo; Spain
| | - Iván C. Suazo
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud; Universidad Autónoma de Chile; Chile
| | - Olivia García-Suárez
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOs; Universidad de Oviedo; Spain
| | - Juan Cobo
- Departamento de Cirugía y Especialidades Médico-Quirúrgicas; Universidad de Oviedo; Spain
- Instituto Asturiano de Odontología; Oviedo Spain
| | - José A. Vega
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Grupo SINPOs; Universidad de Oviedo; Spain
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François A, Scherrer G. Delta Opioid Receptor Expression and Function in Primary Afferent Somatosensory Neurons. Handb Exp Pharmacol 2017; 247:87-114. [PMID: 28993838 DOI: 10.1007/164_2017_58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The functional diversity of primary afferent neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) generates a variety of qualitatively and quantitatively distinct somatosensory experiences, from shooting pain to pleasant touch. In recent years, the identification of dozens of genetic markers specifically expressed by subpopulations of DRG neurons has dramatically improved our understanding of this diversity and provided the tools to manipulate their activity and uncover their molecular identity and function. Opioid receptors have long been known to be expressed by discrete populations of DRG neurons, in which they regulate cell excitability and neurotransmitter release. We review recent insights into the identity of the DRG neurons that express the delta opioid receptor (DOR) and the ion channel mechanisms that DOR engages in these cells to regulate sensory input. We highlight recent findings derived from DORGFP reporter mice and from in situ hybridization and RNA sequencing studies in wild-type mice that revealed DOR presence in cutaneous mechanosensory afferents eliciting touch and implicated in tactile allodynia. Mechanistically, we describe how DOR modulates opening of voltage-gated calcium channels (VGCCs) to control glutamatergic neurotransmission between somatosensory neurons and postsynaptic neurons in the spinal cord dorsal horn. We additionally discuss other potential signaling mechanisms, including those involving potassium channels, which DOR may engage to fine tune somatosensation. We conclude by discussing how this knowledge may explain the analgesic properties of DOR agonists against mechanical pain and uncovers an unanticipated specialized function for DOR in cutaneous mechanosensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaury François
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Grégory Scherrer
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA. .,Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA. .,Department of Neurosurgery, Stanford Neurosciences Institute, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, CA, USA.
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Rice FL, Xie JY, Albrecht PJ, Acker E, Bourgeois J, Navratilova E, Dodick DW, Porreca F. Anatomy and immunochemical characterization of the non-arterial peptidergic diffuse dural innervation of the rat and Rhesus monkey: Implications for functional regulation and treatment in migraine. Cephalalgia 2016; 37:1350-1372. [DOI: 10.1177/0333102416677051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Objective The interplay between neuronal innervation and other cell types underlies the physiological functions of the dura mater and contributes to pathophysiological conditions such as migraine. We characterized the extensive, but understudied, non-arterial diffuse dural innervation (DDI) of the rat and Rhesus monkey. Methods We used a comprehensive integrated multi-molecular immunofluorescence labeling strategy to extensively profile the rat DDI and to a lesser extent that of the Rhesus monkey. Results The DDI was distributed across a dense, pervasive capillary network and included free nerve endings of peptidergic CGRP-expressing C fibers that were closely intertwined with noradrenergic (NA) sympathetic fibers and thin-caliber nonpeptidergic “C/Aδ” fibers. These newly identified C/Aδ fibers were unmyelinated, like C fibers, but expressed NF200, usually indicative of Aδ fibers, and uniquely co-labeled for the CGRP co-receptor, RAMP1. Slightly-larger caliber NF200-positive fibers co-labeled for myelin basic protein (MBP) and terminated as unbranched corpuscular endings. The DDI peptidergic fibers co-labeled for the lectin IB4 and expressed presumably excitatory α1-adrenergic receptors, as well as inhibitory 5HT1D receptors and the delta opioid receptor (δOR), but rarely the mu opioid receptor (µOR). Labeling for P2X3, TRPV1, TRPA1, and parasympathetic markers was not observed in the DDI. Interpretation These results suggest potential functional interactions, wherein peptidergic DDI fibers may be activated by stress-related sympathetic activity, resulting in CGRP release that could be detected in the circulation. CGRP may also activate nonpeptidergic C/Aδ fibers that are likely mechanosensitive or polymodal, leading to activation of post-synaptic pain transmission circuits. The distribution of α1-adrenergic receptors, RAMP1, and the unique expression of the δOR on CGRP-expressing DDI fibers suggest strategies for functional modulation and application to therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank L Rice
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Jennifer Y Xie
- Department of Pharmacology, Arizona Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | | | - Emily Acker
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | | | - Edita Navratilova
- Department of Pharmacology, Arizona Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - David W Dodick
- Departments of Collaborative Research and Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Frank Porreca
- Department of Pharmacology, Arizona Health Sciences Center, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
- Departments of Collaborative Research and Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
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Pham TQ, Hoshi T, Tanaka Y, Sano A, Kawaue T, Miyata T. Two-Photon Imaging of DiO-Labelled Meissner Corpuscle in Living Mouse's Fingertip. IEEE TRANSACTIONS ON HAPTICS 2016; 9:483-491. [PMID: 27254872 DOI: 10.1109/toh.2016.2574718] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Meissner corpuscles are the fast adapting type I (FA-I) mechanoreceptor that locates at the dermal papillae of skin. The Meissner corpuscle is well known for its complex structure, consisting of spiral axons, lamellar cells, and a collagen capsule. Fluorescent microscopy has become a convenient method for observing the Meissner corpuscle and its inner structure. This method requires preparing samples with fingertip cross-sections and performing antibody staining before observation. Various kinds of microscopy can be used for observation, such as confocal microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), or scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Although the anatomical shape, distribution, and components of Meissner corpuscle are recognized, they have been mostly determined from observations of fixed tissues. Therefore, knowledge of mechanical transduction is limited by the lack of in vivo experiments and individual differences among samples. In this study, we propose a novel less invasive imaging method that incorporates a staining technique with lipophilic carbocyanine [Formula: see text] and two-photon microscopy. This combination allows us to repetitively observe the Meissner corpuscle in a living mouse.
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Planells-Cases1 R, Ferrer-Montiel A. Drug design and development through the vanilloid receptor. Expert Opin Drug Discov 2015; 2:1053-63. [PMID: 23484872 DOI: 10.1517/17460441.2.8.1053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The vanilloid receptor (TRPV1) has attracted a great expectation in pain therapeutics for the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions. As a result, several drug discovery programmes were launched in the past years that yielded a large number of receptor agonists and antagonists. However, despite the claimed therapeutic potential of TRPV1 modulators, a disappointing number of candidates have progressed into clinical trials and those were only for dental pain and migraine, indicating that our understanding of the role of TRPV1 in pain is still very limited. The widespread distribution of TRPV1 in different tissues suggests an involvement in body functions other than pain. Indeed, new findings indicate that TRPV1 is tonically active in physiological conditions and its pharmacological blockade leads to hyperthermia. Furthermore, the full abrogation of TRPV1 in some models of chronic pain results in enhanced pain. Therefore, a remaining challenge is the development of drugs that preserve the physiological activity of TRPV1 and downregulate the function of overactive receptors.
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Peppin JF, Albrecht PJ, Argoff C, Gustorff B, Pappagallo M, Rice FL, Wallace MS. Skin Matters: A Review of Topical Treatments for Chronic Pain. Part One: Skin Physiology and Delivery Systems. Pain Ther 2015; 4:17-32. [PMID: 25627665 PMCID: PMC4470967 DOI: 10.1007/s40122-015-0031-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2013] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Chronic pain is a complex disorder with multiple etiologies for which the pathologic mechanisms are still largely unknown, making effective treatment a difficult clinical task. Achieving pain relief along with improved function and quality of life is the primary goal of pain clinicians; however, most patients and healthcare professionals consider 30% pain improvement to be clinically significant—a success level that would be unacceptable in other areas of medicine. Furthermore, patients with chronic pain frequently have multiple comorbidities, including depression and sleep apnea, and most have seen several physicians prior to being seen by a pain specialist, have more than three specific pain generators, and are taking multiple medications. The addition of further oral medications to control pain increases the risk of drug–drug interactions and side effects. However, topical analgesics have the advantage of local application with limited systemic levels of drug. Topical therapies benefit from reduced side effects, lower risk of drug–drug interactions, better patient acceptability/compliance, and improved tolerability. This two-part paper is a review of topical analgesics and their potential role in the treatment of chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- John F Peppin
- Center for Bioethics Pain Management and Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA,
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35
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Vodlak T, Vidrih Z, Pirih P, Skorjanc A, Presern J, Rodic T. Functional Microanatomical Model of Meissner Corpuscle. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-662-44196-1_46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
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Alsunousi S, Marrif HI. Diabetic neuropathy and the sensory apparatus "meissner corpuscle and merkel cells". Front Neuroanat 2014; 8:79. [PMID: 25177276 PMCID: PMC4132297 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2014.00079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Salma Alsunousi
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Benghazi University Benghazi, Libya
| | - Husnia I Marrif
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Princess Noura University Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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Jones LA, Smith AM. Tactile sensory system: encoding from the periphery to the cortex. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-SYSTEMS BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2014; 6:279-87. [DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2013] [Revised: 01/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lynette A. Jones
- Department of Mechanical Engineering; Massachusetts Institute of Technology; Cambridge MA USA
| | - Allan M. Smith
- Département de Physiologie; Université de Montréal; Montréal, Quebec Canada
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Niu J, Vysochan A, Luo W. Dual innervation of neonatal Merkel cells in mouse touch domes. PLoS One 2014; 9:e92027. [PMID: 24637732 PMCID: PMC3956869 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0092027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2013] [Accepted: 02/19/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Merkel cell-neurite complexes are specialized mechanosensory end organs that mediate discriminative touch sensation. It is well established that type I slowly adapting (SAI) mechanoreceptors, which express neural filament heavy chain (NFH), innervate Merkel cells. It was previously shown that neurotrophic factor NT3 and its receptor TrkC play crucial roles in controlling touch dome Merkel cell innervation of NFH+ fibers. In addition, nerve fibers expressing another neurotrophic tyrosine receptor kinase (NTRK), Ret, innervate touch dome Merkel cells as well. However, the relationship between afferents responsive to NT3/TrkC signaling and those expressing Ret is unclear. It is also controversial if these Ret+ fibers belong to the early or late Ret+ DRG neurons, which are defined based on the co-expression and developmental dependence of TrkA. To address these questions, we genetically traced Ret+ and TrkC+ fibers and analyzed their developmental dependence on TrkA. We found that Merkel cells in neonatal mouse touch domes receive innervation of two types of fibers: one group is Ret+, while the other subset expresses TrkC and NFH. In addition, Ret+ fibers depend on TrkA for their survival and normal innervation whereas NFH+ Merkel cell innervating fibers are almost unaltered in TrkA mutant mice, supporting that Ret+ and NFH+/TrkC+ afferents are two distinct groups. Ret signaling, on the other hand, plays a minor role for the innervation of neonatal touch domes. In contrast, Merkel cells in the glabrous skin are mainly contacted by NFH+/TrkC+ afferents. Taken together, our results suggest that neonatal Merkel cells around hair follicles receive dual innervation while Merkel cells in the glabrous skin are mainly innervated by only SAI mechanoreceptors. In addition, our results suggest that neonatal Ret+ Merkel cell innervating fibers most likely belong to the late but not early Ret+ DRG neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingwen Niu
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Anna Vysochan
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
| | - Wenqin Luo
- Department of Neuroscience, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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Herrmann DN. Noninvasive and minimally invasive detection and monitoring of peripheral neuropathies. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 8:1807-16. [DOI: 10.1586/14737175.8.12.1807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
The somatosensory system decodes a wide range of tactile stimuli and thus endows us with a remarkable capacity for object recognition, texture discrimination, sensory-motor feedback and social exchange. The first step leading to perception of innocuous touch is activation of cutaneous sensory neurons called low-threshold mechanoreceptors (LTMRs). Here, we review the properties and functions of LTMRs, emphasizing the unique tuning properties of LTMR subtypes and the organizational logic of their peripheral and central axonal projections. We discuss the spinal cord neurophysiological representation of complex mechanical forces acting upon the skin and current views of how tactile information is processed and conveyed from the spinal cord to the brain. An integrative model in which ensembles of impulses arising from physiologically distinct LTMRs are integrated and processed in somatotopically aligned mechanosensory columns of the spinal cord dorsal horn underlies the nervous system's enormous capacity for perceiving the richness of the tactile world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria E Abraira
- The Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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41
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Nagi SS, Mahns DA. Mechanical allodynia in human glabrous skin mediated by low-threshold cutaneous mechanoreceptors with unmyelinated fibres. Exp Brain Res 2013; 231:139-51. [PMID: 23955107 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-013-3677-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
We recently showed that C-tactile fibres (CTs) in human hairy skin (anterior leg) mediate crossover between innocuous touch and noxious touch, i.e. mechanical allodynia. Although there is no evidence for existence of a phenotypically identical class of CTs in human glabrous skin, the 'qualia' of affective stimuli are comparable across skin types. In 42 healthy subjects, muscle pain was induced by infusing hypertonic saline (5 %) into flexor carpi ulnaris muscle. Concurrently, sinusoidal vibration (200 Hz-200 μm) was applied to glabrous skin of little finger. The neural substrate of allodynia was determined by employing conduction blocks of myelinated (ulnar nerve compression) and unmyelinated (low-dose intra-dermal anaesthesia) fibres. In order to compare the expression of allodynia across spinal segments and skin types, vibration was also applied to glabrous skin of index finger and hairy skin of dorsal forearm. In addition, high-precision brushing stimuli were applied at speeds of 1.0 and 3.0 cm s(-1) to digital glabrous skin with absent myelinated fibres. During muscle pain, vibration caused a significant and reproducible increase in pain (allodynia). This effect persisted during blockade of myelinated fibres, but was abolished by inactivation of unmyelinated cutaneous fibres. The vibration-evoked effects were found to be comparable across spinal segments and skin types. Furthermore, brushing produced a near-identical expression of C-fibre-mediated allodynia. Prior to induction and upon cessation of muscle pain, vibration and brushing were reported as non-painful. Based on these results, we postulate that a functional homologue of the CTs (hairy skin) mediates allodynia in human glabrous skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saad S Nagi
- Department of Integrative Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith, Sydney, NSW, 2751, Australia
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Fleming MS, Luo W. The anatomy, function, and development of mammalian Aβ low-threshold mechanoreceptors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 8. [PMID: 24376457 DOI: 10.1007/s11515-013-1271-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Touch sensation is critical for our social and environmental interactions. In mammals, most discriminative light touch sensation is mediated by the Aβ low-threshold mechanoreceptors. Cell bodies of Aβ low-threshold mechanoreceptors are located in the dorsal root ganglia and trigeminal ganglia, which extend a central projection innervating the spinal cord and brain stem and a peripheral projection innervating the specialized mechanosensory end organs. These specialized mechanosensory end organs include Meissner's corpuscles, Pacinian corpuscles, lanceolate endings, Merkel cells, and Ruffini corpuscles. The morphologies and physiological properties of these mechanosensory end organs and their innervating neurons have been investigated for over a century. In addition, recent advances in mouse genetics have enabled the identification of molecular mechanisms underlying the development of Aβ low-threshold mechanoreceptors, which highlight the crucial roles of neurotrophic factor signaling and transcription factor activity in this process. Here, we will review the anatomy, physiological properties, and development of mammalian low-threshold Aβ mechanoreceptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Fleming
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19014, USA
| | - Wenqin Luo
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19014, USA
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Schuster DJ, Dykstra JA, Riedl MS, Kitto KF, Honda CN, McIvor RS, Fairbanks CA, Vulchanova L. Visualization of spinal afferent innervation in the mouse colon by AAV8-mediated GFP expression. Neurogastroenterol Motil 2013; 25:e89-100. [PMID: 23252426 PMCID: PMC3552078 DOI: 10.1111/nmo.12057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Primary afferent neurons whose cell bodies reside in thoracolumbar and lumbosacral dorsal root ganglia (DRG) innervate colon and transmit sensory signals from colon to spinal cord under normal conditions and conditions of visceral hypersensitivity. Histologically, these extrinsic afferents cannot be differentiated from intrinsic fibers of enteric neurons because all known markers label neurons of both populations. Adeno-associated virus (AAV) vectors are capable of transducing DRG neurons after intrathecal administration. We hypothesized that AAV-driven overexpression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) in DRG would enable visualization of extrinsic spinal afferents in colon separately from enteric neurons. METHODS Recombinant AAV serotype 8 (rAAV8) vector carrying the GFP gene was delivered via direct lumbar puncture. Green fluorescent protein labeling in DRG and colon was examined using immunohistochemistry. KEY RESULTS Analysis of colon from rAAV8-GFP-treated mice demonstrated GFP-immunoreactivity (GFP-ir) within mesenteric nerves, smooth muscle layers, myenteric plexus, submucosa, and mucosa, but not in cell bodies of enteric neurons. Notably, GFP-ir colocalized with CGRP and TRPV1 in mucosa, myenteric plexus, and globular-like clusters surrounding nuclei within myenteric ganglia. In addition, GFP-positive fibers were observed in close association with blood vessels of mucosa and submucosa. Analysis of GFP-ir in thoracolumbar and lumbosacral DRG revealed that levels of expression in colon and L6 DRG appeared to be related. CONCLUSIONS & INFERENCES These results demonstrate the feasibility of gene transfer to mouse colonic spinal sensory neurons using intrathecal delivery of AAV vectors and the utility of this approach for histological analysis of spinal afferent nerve fibers within colon.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel J. Schuster
- Department of Neuroscience University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Jaclyn A. Dykstra
- Comparative and Molecular Biosciences Graduate Program, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108
| | - Maureen S. Riedl
- Department of Neuroscience University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Kelley F. Kitto
- Department of Neuroscience University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455,Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455,Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | | | - R. Scott McIvor
- Department of Genetics Cell Biology and Development, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Carolyn A. Fairbanks
- Department of Neuroscience University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455,Department of Pharmaceutics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455,Department of Pharmacology, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55455
| | - Lucy Vulchanova
- Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN55108
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Myers MI, Peltier AC, Li J. Evaluating dermal myelinated nerve fibers in skin biopsy. Muscle Nerve 2013; 47:1-11. [PMID: 23192899 PMCID: PMC3528842 DOI: 10.1002/mus.23510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Although there has been extensive research on small, unmyelinated fibers in the skin, little research has investigated dermal myelinated fibers in comparison. Glabrous, nonhairy skin contains mechanoreceptors that afford a vantage point for observation of myelinated fibers that have previously been seen only with invasively obtained nerve biopsies. This review discusses current morphometric and molecular expression data of normative and pathogenic glabrous skin obtained by various processing and analysis methods for cutaneous myelinated fibers. Recent publications have shed light on the role of glabrous skin biopsy in identifying signs of peripheral neuropathy and as a potential biomarker of distal myelin and mechanoreceptor integrity. The clinical relevance of a better understanding of the role of dermal myelinated nerve terminations in peripheral neuropathy will be addressed in light of recent publications in the growing field of skin biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Iliza Myers
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
| | | | - Jun Li
- Department of Neurology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Center for Molecular Neuroscience, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
- Center for Human Genetics Research, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN, USA
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45
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Hanada K, Kishimoto S, Bellier JP, Kimura H. Peripheral choline acetyltransferase in rat skin demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 351:497-510. [PMID: 23250574 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1536-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Conventional choline acetyltransferase immunohistochemistry has been used widely for visualizing central cholinergic neurons and fibers but not often for labeling peripheral structures, probably because of their poor staining. The recent identification of the peripheral type of choline acetyltransferase (pChAT) has enabled the clear immunohistochemical detection of many known peripheral cholinergic elements. Here, we report the presence of pChAT-immunoreactive nerve fibers in rat skin. Intensely stained nerve fibers were distributed in association with eccrine sweat glands, blood vessels, hair follicles and portions just beneath the epidermis. These results suggest that pChAT-positive nerves participate in the sympathetic cholinergic innervation of eccrine sweat glands. Moreover, pChAT also appears to play a role in cutaneous sensory nerve endings. These findings are supported by the presence of many pChAT-positive neuronal cells in the sympathetic ganglion and dorsal root ganglion. Thus, pChAT immunohistochemistry should provide a novel and unique tool for studying cholinergic nerves in the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keiji Hanada
- Department of Dermatology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kawaramachi Hirokoji, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto, 602-8566, Japan.
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Widera D, Hauser S, Kaltschmidt C, Kaltschmidt B. Origin and regenerative potential of vertebrate mechanoreceptor-associated stem cells. ANATOMY RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2012; 2012:837626. [PMID: 23082250 PMCID: PMC3467754 DOI: 10.1155/2012/837626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Meissner corpuscles and Merkel cell neurite complexes are highly specialized mechanoreceptors present in the hairy and glabrous skin, as well as in different types of mucosa. Several reports suggest that after injury, such as after nerve crush, freeze injury, or dissection of the nerve, they are able to regenerate, particularly including reinnervation and repopulation of the mechanoreceptors by Schwann cells. However, little is known about mammalian cells responsible for these regenerative processes. Here we review cellular origin of this plasticity in the light of newly described adult neural crest-derived stem cell populations. We also discuss further potential multipotent stem cell populations with the ability to regenerate disrupted innervation and to functionally recover the mechanoreceptors. These capabilities are discussed as in context to cellularly reprogrammed Schwann cells and tissue resident adult mesenchymal stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darius Widera
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Stefan Hauser
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Christian Kaltschmidt
- Department of Cell Biology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
| | - Barbara Kaltschmidt
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, University of Bielefeld, Universitätsstraße 25, 33501 Bielefeld, Germany
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Cabo R, Gálvez MA, San José I, Laurà R, López-Muñiz A, García-Suárez O, Cobo T, Insausti R, Vega JA. Immunohistochemical localization of acid-sensing ion channel 2 (ASIC2) in cutaneous Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles of Macaca fascicularis. Neurosci Lett 2012; 516:197-201. [PMID: 22708125 DOI: 10.1016/j.neulet.2012.03.081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Acid-sensing ion channel 2 (ASIC2) is a member of the degenerin/epithelial sodium channel superfamily, presumably involved mechanosensation. Expression of ASIC2 has been detected in mechanosensory neurons as well as in both axons and Schwann-like cells of cutaneous mechanoreceptors. In these studies we analysed expression of ASIC2 in the cutaneous sensory corpuscles of Macaca fascicularis using immunohistochemistry and laser confocal-scanner microscopy. ASIC2 immunoreactivity was detected in both Meissner and Pacinian corpuscles. It was found to co-localize with neuron-specific enolase and RT-97, but not with S100 protein, demonstrating that ASIC2 expression is restricted to axons supplying mechanoreceptors. These results demonstrate for the first time the presence of the protein ASIC2 in cutaneous rapidly adapting low-threshold mechanoreceptors of monkey, suggesting a role of this ion channel in touch sense.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cabo
- Departamento de Morfología y Biología Celular, Universidad de Oviedo, Spain
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Amit S, Yaron A. Novel systems for in vivo monitoring and microenvironmental investigations of diabetic neuropathy in a murine model. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2012; 119:1317-25. [PMID: 22592935 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-012-0808-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2012] [Accepted: 04/16/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathy is a devastating complication of diabetes conferring vast morbidity and mortality. Despite prolonged efforts to elucidate the mechanisms underlying diabetic related neuropathic phenomena and develop effective therapies, current treatment is for the most part glycemic control and symptomatic care. This is partially due to the intricate pathophysiology of diabetic neuropathy and the scarcity of valid experimental models. The aim of the study was to establish novel systems enabling monitoring and dissection of significant processes in the development of diabetic neuropathy. In a non-invasive in vivo model, two-photon microscopy is applied to evaluate mechanoreceptors (Meissner corpuscles) within an intact footpad of transgenic mice expressing a fluorescent neuronal tracer. By applying this advanced technology, which couples potent tissue penetration with superb resolution, we documented qualitative and quantitative diabetes-specific alterations in these sensory structures. Detection of such changes previously required laborious invasive histopathological techniques. In parallel, we present an ex vivo system that mimics the native microenvironment of the nerve ending via a unique co-culture of primary sensory neurons and thin skin slices. In conjunction with innovative high-throughput digital axonal measurements and computerized quantification tools, this method enables an unbiased exploration of neuronal autonomous and non-autonomous malfunctions. Using this setup we demonstrate that while the diabetic nerve retains a near-normal growth and regeneration capacities, the diabetic skin exhibits a decreased ability to support axonal outgrowth. Thus, an early target organ failure rather than intrinsic neuronal failure may initiate the neuropathy. Overall, the illustrated experimental platforms may greatly facilitate the holistic investigation of diabetic neuropathy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Amit
- Department of Biological Chemistry, The Weizmann Institute of Science, 76100 Rehovot, Israel.
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Schley M, Bayram A, Rukwied R, Dusch M, Konrad C, Benrath J, Geber C, Birklein F, Hägglöf B, Sjögren N, Gee L, Albrecht PJ, Rice FL, Schmelz M. Skin innervation at different depths correlates with small fibre function but not with pain in neuropathic pain patients. Eur J Pain 2012; 16:1414-25. [PMID: 22556099 DOI: 10.1002/j.1532-2149.2012.00157.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 03/27/2012] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuropathy can lead not only to impaired function but also to sensory sensitization. We aimed to link reduced skin nerve fibre density in different levels to layer-specific functional impairment in neuropathic pain patients and tried to identify pain-specific functional and structural markers. METHODS In 12 healthy controls and 36 patients with neuropathic pain, we assessed clinical characteristics, thermal thresholds (quantitative sensory testing) and electrically induced pain and axon reflex erythema. At the most painful sites and at intra-individual control sites, skin biopsies were taken and innervation densities in the different skin layers were assessed. Moreover, neuronal calcitonin gene-related peptide staining was quantified. RESULTS Perception of warm, cold and heat pain and nerve fibre density were reduced in the painful areas compared with the control sites and with healthy controls. Warm and cold detection thresholds correlated best with epidermal innervation density, whereas heat and cold pain thresholds and axon reflex flare correlated best with dermal innervation density. Clinical pain ratings correlated only with epidermal nerve fibre density (r = 0.38, p < 0.05) and better preserved cold detection thresholds (r = 0.39, p < 0.05), but not with other assessed functional and structural parameters. CONCLUSIONS Thermal thresholds, axon reflex measurements and assessment of skin innervation density are valuable tools to characterize and quantify peripheral neuropathy and link neuronal function to different layers of the skin. The severity of small fibre neuropathy, however, did not correspond to clinical pain intensity and a specific parameter or pattern that would predict pain intensity in peripheral neuropathy could not be identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Schley
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Heidelberg University, Germany
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Burnstock G, Knight GE, Greig AV. Purinergic Signaling in Healthy and Diseased Skin. J Invest Dermatol 2012; 132:526-46. [DOI: 10.1038/jid.2011.344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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