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Testa L, Dotta S, Vercelli A, Marvaldi L. Communicating pain: emerging axonal signaling in peripheral neuropathic pain. Front Neuroanat 2024; 18:1398400. [PMID: 39045347 PMCID: PMC11265228 DOI: 10.3389/fnana.2024.1398400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 07/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Peripheral nerve damage often leads to the onset of neuropathic pain (NeuP). This condition afflicts millions of people, significantly burdening healthcare systems and putting strain on families' financial well-being. Here, we will focus on the role of peripheral sensory neurons, specifically the Dorsal Root Ganglia neurons (DRG neurons) in the development of NeuP. After axotomy, DRG neurons activate regenerative signals of axons-soma communication to promote a gene program that activates an axonal branching and elongation processes. The results of a neuronal morphological cytoskeleton change are not always associated with functional recovery. Moreover, any axonal miss-targeting may contribute to NeuP development. In this review, we will explore the epidemiology of NeuP and its molecular causes at the level of the peripheral nervous system and the target organs, with major focus on the neuronal cross-talk between intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Specifically, we will describe how failures in the neuronal regenerative program can exacerbate NeuP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Livia Testa
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
| | - Sofia Dotta
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
| | - Alessandro Vercelli
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
| | - Letizia Marvaldi
- Neuroscience Institute Cavalieri Ottolenghi, Orbassano (Torino), Torino, Italy
- Department of Neuroscience “Rita Levi-Montalcini”, Torino, Italy
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2
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Ding H, Zhou L, Zhou J, Feng J. Peripheral Mechanisms of Mechanical Itch. J Invest Dermatol 2024; 144:1449-1453. [PMID: 38206270 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2023.10.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Mechanical itch, which is defined as an itch sensation caused by innocuous mechanical force, may warn of the potential risk in the skin. The increased mechanosensitivity in sensory neurons may cause scratch-induced itch and promote the transition from acute itch to chronic itch. Recent studies have not only expanded our knowledge about the neuronal circuits in the CNS but have also highlighted the importance of the peripheral epithelia-immune-neuronal crosstalk in the development of mechanical itch. In this review, we will summarize related findings about the molecular and cellular mechanisms of mechanical itch in the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huijuan Ding
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Liqin Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jiaying Zhou
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Feng
- School of Chinese Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China; State Key Laboratory of Chemical Biology, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Science, Shanghai, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.
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3
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Hofmann L, Grüner J, Klug K, Breyer M, Klein T, Hochheimer V, Wagenhäuser L, Wischmeyer E, Üçeyler N. Elevated interleukin-8 expression by skin fibroblasts as a potential contributor to pain in women with Fabry disease. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300687. [PMID: 38593151 PMCID: PMC11003625 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Fabry disease (FD) is a lysosomal storage disorder of X-linked inheritance. Mutations in the α-galactosidase A gene lead to cellular globotriaosylceramide (Gb3) depositions and triggerable acral burning pain in both sexes as an early FD symptom of unknown pathophysiology. We aimed at elucidating the link between skin cells and nociceptor sensitization contributing to FD pain in a sex-associated manner. We used cultured keratinocytes and fibroblasts of 27 adult FD patients and 20 healthy controls. Epidermal keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts were cultured and immunoreacted to evaluate Gb3 load. Gene expression analysis of pain-related ion channels and pro-inflammatory cytokines was performed in dermal fibroblasts. We further investigated electrophysiological properties of induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) derived sensory-like neurons of a man with FD and a healthy man and incubated the cells with interleukin 8 (IL-8) or fibroblast supernatant as an in vitro model system. Keratinocytes displayed no intracellular, but membrane-bound Gb3 deposits. In contrast, fibroblasts showed intracellular Gb3 and revealed higher gene expression of potassium intermediate/small conductance calcium-activated potassium channel 3.1 (KCa 3.1, KCNN4) in both, men and women with FD compared to controls. Additionally, cytokine expression analysis showed increased IL-8 RNA levels only in female FD fibroblasts. Patch-clamp studies revealed reduced rheobase currents for both iPSC neuron cell lines incubated with IL-8 or fibroblast supernatant of women with FD. We conclude that Gb3 deposition in female FD patient skin fibroblasts may lead to increased KCa3.1 activity and IL-8 secretion. This may result in cutaneous nociceptor sensitization as a potential mechanism contributing to a sex-associated FD pain phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lukas Hofmann
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Julia Grüner
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Klug
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Maximilian Breyer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Klein
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Vanessa Hochheimer
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Laura Wagenhäuser
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Erhard Wischmeyer
- Molecular Electrophysiology, Institute of Physiology, Center of Mental Health, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Fabry Center for interdisciplinary Therapy (FAZiT), University Hospital of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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4
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Albrecht PJ, Liu Y, Houk G, Ruggiero B, Banov D, Dockum M, Day A, Rice FL, Bassani G. Cutaneous targets for topical pain medications in patients with neuropathic pain: individual differential expression of biomarkers supports the need for personalized medicine. Pain Rep 2024; 9:e1119. [PMID: 38375092 PMCID: PMC10876238 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000001121] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Numerous potential cutaneous targets exist for treating chronic pain with topically applied active pharmaceutical ingredients. This preliminary human skin tissue investigation was undertaken to characterize several key biomarkers in keratinocytes and provide proof-of-principle data to support clinical development of topical compounded formulations for peripheral neuropathic pain syndromes, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN). Objectives The study intended to identify objective biomarkers in PHN skin on a patient-by-patient personalized medicine platform. The totality of biopsy biomarker data can provide a tissue basis for directing individualized compounded topical preparations to optimize treatment efficacy. Methods Referencing 5 of the most common actives used in topical pain relief formulations (ketamine, gabapentin, clonidine, baclofen, and lidocaine), and 3 well-established cutaneous mediators (ie, neuropeptides, cannabinoids, and vanilloids), comprehensive immunolabeling was used to quantify receptor biomarkers in skin biopsy samples taken from ipsilateral (pain) and contralateral (nonpain) dermatomes of patients with PHN. Results Epidermal keratinocyte labeling patterns were significantly different among the cohort for each biomarker, consistent with potential mechanisms of action among keratinocytes. Importantly, the total biomarker panel indicates that the enriched PHN cohort contains distinct subgroups. Conclusion The heterogeneity of the cohort differences may explain studies that have not shown statistical group benefit from topically administered compounded therapies. Rather, the essential need for individual tissue biomarker evaluations is evident, particularly as a means to direct a more accurately targeted topical personalized medicine approach and generate positive clinical results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yi Liu
- Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA), Houston, TX, USA
| | - George Houk
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC (INTiDYN), Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Beth Ruggiero
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC (INTiDYN), Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Daniel Banov
- Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Marilyn Dockum
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC (INTiDYN), Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - A.J. Day
- Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA), Houston, TX, USA
| | - Frank L. Rice
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC (INTiDYN), Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - Gus Bassani
- Professional Compounding Centers of America (PCCA), Houston, TX, USA
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5
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Qi L, Iskols M, Shi D, Reddy P, Walker C, Lezgiyeva K, Voisin T, Pawlak M, Kuchroo VK, Chiu IM, Ginty DD, Sharma N. A mouse DRG genetic toolkit reveals morphological and physiological diversity of somatosensory neuron subtypes. Cell 2024; 187:1508-1526.e16. [PMID: 38442711 PMCID: PMC10947841 DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.02.006] [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: 04/22/2023] [Revised: 11/12/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) somatosensory neurons detect mechanical, thermal, and chemical stimuli acting on the body. Achieving a holistic view of how different DRG neuron subtypes relay neural signals from the periphery to the CNS has been challenging with existing tools. Here, we develop and curate a mouse genetic toolkit that allows for interrogating the properties and functions of distinct cutaneous targeting DRG neuron subtypes. These tools have enabled a broad morphological analysis, which revealed distinct cutaneous axon arborization areas and branching patterns of the transcriptionally distinct DRG neuron subtypes. Moreover, in vivo physiological analysis revealed that each subtype has a distinct threshold and range of responses to mechanical and/or thermal stimuli. These findings support a model in which morphologically and physiologically distinct cutaneous DRG sensory neuron subtypes tile mechanical and thermal stimulus space to collectively encode a wide range of natural stimuli.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Qi
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Michael Iskols
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David Shi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Pranav Reddy
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Christopher Walker
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | - Karina Lezgiyeva
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Tiphaine Voisin
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mathias Pawlak
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Vijay K Kuchroo
- Gene Lay Institute of Immunology and Inflammation, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Mass General Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Isaac M Chiu
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - David D Ginty
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
| | - Nikhil Sharma
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY 10032, USA.
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6
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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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7
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Ojeda-Alonso J, Calvo-Enrique L, Paricio-Montesinos R, Kumar R, Zhang MD, Poulet JFA, Ernfors P, Lewin GR. Sensory Schwann cells set perceptual thresholds for touch and selectively regulate mechanical nociception. Nat Commun 2024; 15:898. [PMID: 38320986 PMCID: PMC10847425 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-44845-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024] Open
Abstract
Previous work identified nociceptive Schwann cells that can initiate pain. Consistent with the existence of inherently mechanosensitive sensory Schwann cells, we found that in mice, the mechanosensory function of almost all nociceptors, including those signaling fast pain, were dependent on sensory Schwann cells. In polymodal nociceptors, sensory Schwann cells signal mechanical, but not cold or heat pain. Terminal Schwann cells also surround mechanoreceptor nerve-endings within the Meissner's corpuscle and in hair follicle lanceolate endings that both signal vibrotactile touch. Within Meissner´s corpuscles, two molecularly and functionally distinct sensory Schwann cells positive for Sox10 and Sox2 differentially modulate rapidly adapting mechanoreceptor function. Using optogenetics we show that Meissner's corpuscle Schwann cells are necessary for the perception of low threshold vibrotactile stimuli. These results show that sensory Schwann cells within diverse glio-neural mechanosensory end-organs are sensors for mechanical pain as well as necessary for touch perception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Ojeda-Alonso
- Molecular Physiology of Somatic Sensation, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany
| | - Laura Calvo-Enrique
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Patología, Instituto de Neurociencias de Castilla y León, University of Salamanca, Salamanca, Spain
| | - Ricardo Paricio-Montesinos
- Neural Circuits and Behavior, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Deutsches Zentrum für Neurodegenerative Erkrankungen e. V. (DZNE), Venusberg-Campus 1/99, 53127, Bonn, Germany
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Pain Center, Department of Anesthesiology Washington University School of Medicine, CB 8108, 660 S. Euclid Ave., St. Louis, MO, 63110, USA
| | - Ming-Dong Zhang
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - James F A Poulet
- Neural Circuits and Behavior, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
| | - Patrik Ernfors
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Division of Molecular Neurobiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
| | - Gary R Lewin
- Molecular Physiology of Somatic Sensation, Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine, 13125, Berlin, Germany.
- Charité-Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany.
- German Center for Mental Health (DZPG), partner site Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
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8
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Aruljothi S, Manchanda R. A biophysically comprehensive model of urothelial afferent neurons: implications for sensory signalling in urinary bladder. J Comput Neurosci 2024; 52:21-37. [PMID: 38345739 DOI: 10.1007/s10827-024-00865-3] [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: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/10/2024]
Abstract
The urothelium is the innermost layer of the bladder wall; it plays a pivotal role in bladder sensory transduction by responding to chemical and mechanical stimuli. The urothelium also acts as a physical barrier between urine and the outer layers of the bladder wall. There is intricate sensory communication between the layers of the bladder wall and the neurons that supply the bladder, which eventually translates into the regulation of mechanical activity. In response to natural stimuli, urothelial cells release substances such as ATP, nitric oxide (NO), substance P, acetylcholine (ACh), and adenosine. These act on adjacent urothelial cells, myofibroblasts, and urothelial afferent neurons (UAN), controlling the contractile activity of the bladder. There is rising evidence on the importance of urothelial sensory signalling, yet a comprehensive understanding of the functioning of the urothelium-afferent neurons and the factors that govern it remains elusive to date. Until now, the biophysical studies done on UAN have been unable to provide adequate information on the ion channel composition of the neuron, which is paramount to understanding the electrical functioning of the UAN and, by extension, afferent signalling. To this end, we have attempted to model UAN to decipher the ionic mechanisms underlying the excitability of the UAN. In contrast to previous models, our model was built and validated using morphological and biophysical properties consistent with experimental findings for the UAN. The model included all the channels thus far known to be expressed in UAN, including; voltage-gated sodium and potassium channels, N, L, T, P/Q, R-type calcium channels, large-conductance calcium-dependent potassium (BK) channels, small conductance calcium-dependent (SK) channels, Hyperpolarisation activated cation (HCN) channels, transient receptor potential melastatin (TRPM8), transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV1) channel, calcium-activated chloride(CaCC) channels, and internal calcium dynamics. Our UAN model a) was constrained as far as possible by experimental data from the literature for the channels and the spiking activity, b) was validated by reproducing the experimental responses to current-clamp and voltage-clamp protocols c) was used as a base for modelling the non-urothelial afferent neurons (NUAN). Using our models, we also gained insights into the variations in ion channels between UAN and NUAN neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satchithananthi Aruljothi
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, Maharashtra, India
| | - Rohit Manchanda
- Department of Biosciences and Bioengineering, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, 400076, Maharashtra, India.
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9
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Erbacher C, Britz S, Dinkel P, Klein T, Sauer M, Stigloher C, Üçeyler N. Interaction of human keratinocytes and nerve fiber terminals at the neuro-cutaneous unit. eLife 2024; 13:e77761. [PMID: 38225894 PMCID: PMC10791129 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77761] [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: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Traditionally, peripheral sensory neurons are assumed as the exclusive transducers of external stimuli. Current research moves epidermal keratinocytes into focus as sensors and transmitters of nociceptive and non-nociceptive sensations, tightly interacting with intraepidermal nerve fibers at the neuro-cutaneous unit. In animal models, epidermal cells establish close contacts and ensheath sensory neurites. However, ultrastructural morphological and mechanistic data examining the human keratinocyte-nerve fiber interface are sparse. We investigated this exact interface in human skin applying super-resolution array tomography, expansion microscopy, and structured illumination microscopy. We show keratinocyte ensheathment of afferents and adjacent connexin 43 contacts in native skin and have applied a pipeline based on expansion microscopy to quantify these parameter in skin sections of healthy participants versus patients with small fiber neuropathy. We further derived a fully human co-culture system, visualizing ensheathment and connexin 43 plaques in vitro. Unraveling human intraepidermal nerve fiber ensheathment and potential interaction sites advances research at the neuro-cutaneous unit. These findings are crucial on the way to decipher the mechanisms of cutaneous nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sebastian Britz
- Imaging Core Facility, Biocenter, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Philine Dinkel
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Thomas Klein
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | - Markus Sauer
- Department of Biotechnology and Biophysics, University of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
| | | | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital of WürzburgWürzburgGermany
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10
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Tong C, Moayedi Y, Lumpkin EA. Merkel cells and keratinocytes in oral mucosa are activated by mechanical stimulation. Physiol Rep 2024; 12:e15826. [PMID: 38246872 PMCID: PMC10800296 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15826] [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: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The detection of mechanical qualities of foodstuffs is essential for nutrient acquisition, evaluation of food freshness, and bolus formation during mastication. However, the mechanisms through which mechanosensitive cells in the oral cavity transmit mechanical information from the periphery to the brain are not well defined. We hypothesized Merkel cells, which are epithelial mechanoreceptors and important for pressure and texture sensing in the skin, can be mechanically activated in the oral cavity. Using live-cell calcium imaging, we recorded Merkel cell activity in ex vivo gingival and palatal preparations from mice in response to mechanical stimulation. Merkel cells responded with distinct temporal patterns and activation thresholds in a region-specific manner, with Merkel cells in the hard palate having a higher mean activation threshold than those in the gingiva. Unexpectedly, we found that oral keratinocytes were also activated by mechanical stimulation, even in the absence of Merkel cells. This indicates that mechanical stimulation of oral mucosa independently activates at least two subpopulations of epithelial cells. Finally, we found that oral Merkel cells contribute to preference for consuming oily emulsion. To our knowledge, these data represent the first functional study of Merkel-cell physiology and its role in flavor detection in the oral cavity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi‐Kun Tong
- Department of Physiology and Cellular BiophysicsColumbia University Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
| | - Yalda Moayedi
- Department of Physiology and Cellular BiophysicsColumbia University Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Present address:
Departments of Neurology and Otolaryngology‐Head and Neck SurgeryColumbia UniversityNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Ellen A. Lumpkin
- Department of Physiology and Cellular BiophysicsColumbia University Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Department of DermatologyColumbia University Medical CenterNew YorkNew YorkUSA
- Present address:
Department of Molecular and Cell BiologyHelen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, BerkeleyBerkeleyCAUSA
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11
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Dedek C, Azadgoleh MA, Prescott SA. Reproducible and fully automated testing of nocifensive behavior in mice. CELL REPORTS METHODS 2023; 3:100650. [PMID: 37992707 PMCID: PMC10783627 DOI: 10.1016/j.crmeth.2023.100650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/11/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
Pain in rodents is often inferred from their withdrawal from noxious stimulation. Threshold stimulus intensity or response latency is used to quantify pain sensitivity. This usually involves applying stimuli by hand and measuring responses by eye, which limits reproducibility and throughput. We describe a device that standardizes and automates pain testing by providing computer-controlled aiming, stimulation, and response measurement. Optogenetic and thermal stimuli are applied using blue and infrared light, respectively. Precise mechanical stimulation is also demonstrated. Reflectance of red light is used to measure paw withdrawal with millisecond precision. We show that consistent stimulus delivery is crucial for resolving stimulus-dependent variations in withdrawal and for testing with sustained stimuli. Moreover, substage video reveals "spontaneous" behaviors for consideration alongside withdrawal metrics to better assess the pain experience. The entire process was automated using machine learning. RAMalgo (reproducible automated multimodal algometry) improves the standardization, comprehensiveness, and throughput of preclinical pain testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Dedek
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada
| | - Mehdi A Azadgoleh
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada
| | - Steven A Prescott
- Neurosciences and Mental Health, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON M5G 0A4, Canada; Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3G9, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada.
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12
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Mikesell AR, Isaeva E, Schulte ML, Menzel AD, Sriram A, Prahl MM, Shin SM, Sadler KE, Yu H, Stucky CL. Keratinocyte Piezo1 drives paclitaxel-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.12.12.571332. [PMID: 38168305 PMCID: PMC10760029 DOI: 10.1101/2023.12.12.571332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2024]
Abstract
Recent work demonstrates that epidermal keratinocytes are critical for normal touch sensation. However, it is unknown if keratinocytes contribute to touch evoked pain and hypersensitivity following tissue injury. Here, we used inhibitory optogenetic and chemogenetic techniques to determine the extent to which keratinocyte activity contributes to the severe neuropathic pain that accompanies chemotherapeutic treatment. We found that keratinocyte inhibition largely alleviates paclitaxel-induced mechanical hypersensitivity. Furthermore, we found that paclitaxel exposure sensitizes mouse and human keratinocytes to mechanical stimulation through the keratinocyte mechanotransducer Piezo1. These findings demonstrate the contribution of non-neuronal cutaneous cells to neuropathic pain and pave the way for the development of new pain-relief strategies that target epidermal keratinocytes and Piezo1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Mikesell
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Elena Isaeva
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | | | - Anthony D Menzel
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Anvitha Sriram
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Megan M Prahl
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Seung Min Shin
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Katelyn E Sadler
- Department of Neuroscience, Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas; Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Hongwei Yu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Cheryl L Stucky
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin; Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
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13
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Inclan-Rico JM, Napuri CM, Lin C, Hung LY, Ferguson AA, Wu Q, Pastore CF, Stephenson A, Femoe UM, Rossi HL, Reed DR, Luo W, Abdus-Saboor I, Herbert DR. "MrgprA3 neurons selectively control myeloid-derived cytokines for IL-17 dependent cutaneous immunity". RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-3644984. [PMID: 38076920 PMCID: PMC10705600 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-3644984/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Skin employs interdependent cellular networks to facilitate barrier integrity and host immunity through ill-defined mechanisms. This study demonstrates that manipulation of itch-sensing neurons bearing the Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor A3 (MrgprA3) drives IL-17+ γδ T cell expansion, epidermal thickening, and resistance to the human pathogen Schistosoma mansoni through mechanisms that require myeloid antigen presenting cells (APC). Activated MrgprA3 neurons instruct myeloid APCs to downregulate interleukin 33 (IL-33) and up-regulate TNFα partially through the neuropeptide calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP). Strikingly, cell-intrinsic deletion of IL-33 in myeloid APC basally alters chromatin accessibility at inflammatory cytokine loci and promotes IL-17/23-dependent epidermal thickening, keratinocyte hyperplasia, and resistance to helminth infection. Our findings reveal a previously undescribed mechanism of intercellular cross-talk wherein "itch" neuron activation reshapes myeloid cytokine expression patterns to alter skin composition for cutaneous immunity against invasive pathogens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan M. Inclan-Rico
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Camila M. Napuri
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Cailu Lin
- Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Li-Yin Hung
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Annabel A. Ferguson
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Qinxue Wu
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Christopher F. Pastore
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Adriana Stephenson
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ulrich M. Femoe
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Heather L. Rossi
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | | | - Wenqin Luo
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Ishmail Abdus-Saboor
- Department of Biological Sciences, Zuckerman Mind, Brain, Behavior Institute, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA
| | - De’Broski R. Herbert
- Department of Pathobiology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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14
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Fetell M, Sendel M, Li T, Marinelli L, Vollert J, Ruggerio E, Houk G, Dockum M, Albrecht PJ, Rice FL, Baron R. Cutaneous nerve fiber and peripheral Nav1.7 assessment in a large cohort of patients with postherpetic neuralgia. Pain 2023; 164:2435-2446. [PMID: 37366590 PMCID: PMC10578423 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT The mechanisms of pain in postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) are still unclear, with some studies showing loss of cutaneous sensory nerve fibers that seemed to correlate with pain level. We report results of skin biopsies and correlations with baseline pain scores, mechanical hyperalgesia, and the Neuropathic Pain Symptom Inventory (NPSI) in 294 patients who participated in a clinical trial of TV-45070, a topical semiselective sodium 1.7 channel (Nav1.7) blocker. Intraepidermal nerve fibers and subepidermal Nav1.7 immunolabeled fibers were quantified in skin punch biopsies from the area of maximal PHN pain, as well as from the contralateral, homologous (mirror image) region. Across the entire study population, a 20% reduction in nerve fibers on the PHN-affected side compared with that in the contralateral side was noted; however, the reduction was much higher in older individuals, approaching 40% in those aged 70 years or older. There was a decrease in contralateral fiber counts as well, also noted in prior biopsy studies, the mechanism of which is not fully clear. Nav1.7-positive immunolabeling was present in approximately one-third of subepidermal nerve fibers and did not differ on the PHN-affected vs contralateral sides. Using cluster analysis, 2 groups could be identified, with the first cluster showing higher baseline pain, higher NPSI scores for squeezing and cold-induced pain, higher nerve fiber density, and higher Nav1.7 expression. While Nav1.7 varies from patient to patient, it does not seem to be a key pathophysiological driver of PHN pain. Individual differences in Nav1.7 expression, however, may determine the intensity and sensory aspects of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Manon Sendel
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany
| | - Thomas Li
- Teva Pharmaceuticals, West Chester, PA, United States
| | | | - Jan Vollert
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany
- Pain Research, MSk Lab, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Neurophysiology, Mannheim Center for Translational Neuroscience MCTN, Medical Faculty Mannheim, Ruprecht Karls University, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
| | | | - George Houk
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Marilyn Dockum
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | | | - Frank L. Rice
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Ralf Baron
- Division of Neurological Pain Research and Therapy, Department of Neurology, University Hospital of Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Kiel, Germany
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15
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Agramunt J, Parke B, Mena S, Ubels V, Jimenez F, Williams G, Rhodes ADY, Limbu S, Hexter M, Knight L, Hashemi P, Kozlov AS, Higgins CA. Mechanical stimulation of human hair follicle outer root sheath cultures activates adjacent sensory neurons. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2023; 9:eadh3273. [PMID: 37889977 PMCID: PMC10610912 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adh3273] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical stimuli, such as stroking or pressing on the skin, activate mechanoreceptors transmitting information to the sensory nervous system and brain. It is well accepted that deflection of the hair fiber that occurs with a light breeze or touch directly activates the sensory neurons surrounding the hair follicle, facilitating transmission of mechanical information. Here, we hypothesized that hair follicle outer root sheath cells act as transducers of mechanical stimuli to sensory neurons surrounding the hair follicle. Using electrochemical analysis on human hair follicle preparations in vitro, we were able to show that outer root sheath cells release ATP and the neurotransmitters serotonin and histamine in response to mechanical stimulation. Using calcium imaging combined with pharmacology in a coculture of outer root sheath cells with sensory neurons, we found that the release of these three molecules from hair follicle cells leads to activation of sensory neurons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julià Agramunt
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Brenna Parke
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sergio Mena
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Victor Ubels
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Francisco Jimenez
- Mediteknia Clinic, Las Palmas, Gran Canaria, Spain
- University Fernando Pessoa Canarias, Gran Canaria, Spain
| | | | - Anna DY Rhodes
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Summik Limbu
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Melissa Hexter
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Parastoo Hashemi
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Andriy S. Kozlov
- Department of Bioengineering, Imperial College London, London, UK
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16
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Pacifico P, Coy-Dibley JS, Miller RJ, Menichella DM. Peripheral mechanisms of peripheral neuropathic pain. Front Mol Neurosci 2023; 16:1252442. [PMID: 37781093 PMCID: PMC10537945 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2023.1252442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Peripheral neuropathic pain (PNP), neuropathic pain that arises from a damage or disease affecting the peripheral nervous system, is associated with an extremely large disease burden, and there is an increasing and urgent need for new therapies for treating this disorder. In this review we have highlighted therapeutic targets that may be translated into disease modifying therapies for PNP associated with peripheral neuropathy. We have also discussed how genetic studies and novel technologies, such as optogenetics, chemogenetics and single-cell RNA-sequencing, have been increasingly successful in revealing novel mechanisms underlying PNP. Additionally, consideration of the role of non-neuronal cells and communication between the skin and sensory afferents is presented to highlight the potential use of drug treatment that could be applied topically, bypassing drug side effects. We conclude by discussing the current difficulties to the development of effective new therapies and, most importantly, how we might improve the translation of targets for peripheral neuropathic pain identified from studies in animal models to the clinic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Pacifico
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - James S. Coy-Dibley
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Richard J. Miller
- Department of Pharmacology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Daniela M. Menichella
- Department of Neurology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
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17
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Zavyalova O, Dąbrowska-Wisłocka D, Misiura K, Hołyńska-Iwan I. Chitosan-Glycolic Acid Gel Modification of Chloride Ion Transport in Mammalian Skin: An In Vitro Study. Molecules 2023; 28:6581. [PMID: 37764357 PMCID: PMC10537562 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28186581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Chitosan, a polyaminosaccharide with high medical and cosmetic potential, can be combined with the beneficial properties of glycolic acid to form a gel that not only moisturizes the skin, but also has a regenerative effect. Its involvement in the activation of biochemical processes may be associated with the activity of skin ion channels. Therefore, the aim of the research was to evaluate the immediate (15 s) and long-term (24 h) effect of chitosan-glycolic acid gel (CGG) on the transepithelial electric potential and the transepithelial electric resistance (R) of skin specimens tested in vitro. Stimulation during immediate and prolonged application of CGG to skin specimens resulted in a significant decrease in the measured minimal transepithelial electric potential (PDmin). The absence of any change in the R after the CGG application indicates that it does not affect the skin transmission, or cause distortion, microdamage or changes in ion permeability. However, the reduction in potential may be due to the increased transport of chloride ions, and thus water, from outside the cell into the cell interior. Increased secretion of chloride ions is achieved by stimulating the action of the CFTR (cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance). It can be assumed that chitosan gently stimulates the secretion of chlorides, while maintaining a tendency to reduce the transport of sodium ions, without causing deformation or tissue damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Zavyalova
- Department of Chemical Technology and Pharmaceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (O.Z.); (D.D.-W.)
| | - Dominika Dąbrowska-Wisłocka
- Department of Chemical Technology and Pharmaceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (O.Z.); (D.D.-W.)
| | - Konrad Misiura
- Department of Chemical Technology and Pharmaceuticals, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland; (O.Z.); (D.D.-W.)
| | - Iga Hołyńska-Iwan
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
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18
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Ehlers VL, Sadler KE, Stucky CL. Peripheral transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4 hypersensitivity contributes to chronic sickle cell disease pain. Pain 2023; 164:1874-1886. [PMID: 36897169 PMCID: PMC10363186 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 03/11/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Debilitating pain affects the lives of patients with sickle cell disease (SCD). Current pain treatment for patients with SCD fail to completely resolve acute or chronic SCD pain. Previous research indicates that the cation channel transient receptor potential vanilloid type 4 (TRPV4) mediates peripheral hypersensitivity in various inflammatory and neuropathic pain conditions that may share similar pathophysiology with SCD, but this channel's role in chronic SCD pain remains unknown. Thus, the current experiments examined whether TRPV4 regulates hyperalgesia in transgenic mouse models of SCD. Acute blockade of TRPV4 alleviated evoked behavioral hypersensitivity to punctate, but not dynamic, mechanical stimuli in mice with SCD. TRPV4 blockade also reduced the mechanical sensitivity of small, but not large, dorsal root ganglia neurons from mice with SCD. Furthermore, keratinocytes from mice with SCD showed sensitized TRPV4-dependent calcium responses. These results shed new light on the role of TRPV4 in SCD chronic pain and are the first to suggest a role for epidermal keratinocytes in the heightened sensitivity observed in SCD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa L Ehlers
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
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19
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Wang L, Su X, Yan J, Wu Q, Xu X, Wang X, Liu X, Song X, Zhang Z, Hu W, Liu X, Zhang Y. Involvement of Mrgprd-expressing nociceptors-recruited spinal mechanisms in nerve injury-induced mechanical allodynia. iScience 2023; 26:106764. [PMID: 37250305 PMCID: PMC10214713 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.106764] [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: 08/23/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Mechanical allodynia and hyperalgesia are intractable symptoms lacking effective clinical treatments in patients with neuropathic pain. However, whether and how mechanically responsive non-peptidergic nociceptors are involved remains elusive. Here, we showed that von Frey-evoked static allodynia and aversion, along with mechanical hyperalgesia after spared nerve injury (SNI) were reduced by ablation of MrgprdCreERT2-marked neurons. Electrophysiological recordings revealed that SNI-opened Aβ-fiber inputs to laminae I-IIo and vIIi, as well as C-fiber inputs to vIIi, were all attenuated in Mrgprd-ablated mice. In addition, priming chemogenetic or optogenetic activation of Mrgprd+ neurons drove mechanical allodynia and aversion to low-threshold mechanical stimuli, along with mechanical hyperalgesia. Mechanistically, gated Aβ and C inputs to vIIi were opened, potentially via central sensitization by dampening potassium currents. Altogether, we uncovered the involvement of Mrgprd+ nociceptors in nerve injury-induced mechanical pain and dissected the underlying spinal mechanisms, thus providing insights into potential therapeutic targets for pain management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liangbiao Wang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xiaojing Su
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Jinjin Yan
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Qiaofeng Wu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xinyue Wang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xiaoqing Liu
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Xiaoyuan Song
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Zhi Zhang
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at the Microscale, CAS Key Laboratory of Brain Function and Disease, School of Life Sciences, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230026, China
| | - Wei Hu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Xinfeng Liu
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Neurology, the First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Division of Life Sciences and Medicine, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui 230001, China
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20
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Qi L, Iskols M, Shi D, Reddy P, Walker C, Lezgiyeva K, Voisin T, Pawlak M, Kuchroo VK, Chiu I, Ginty DD, Sharma N. A DRG genetic toolkit reveals molecular, morphological, and functional diversity of somatosensory neuron subtypes. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.22.537932. [PMID: 37131664 PMCID: PMC10153270 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.22.537932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Mechanical and thermal stimuli acting on the skin are detected by morphologically and physiologically distinct sensory neurons of the dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Achieving a holistic view of how this diverse neuronal population relays sensory information from the skin to the central nervous system (CNS) has been challenging with existing tools. Here, we used transcriptomic datasets of the mouse DRG to guide development and curation of a genetic toolkit to interrogate transcriptionally defined DRG neuron subtypes. Morphological analysis revealed unique cutaneous axon arborization areas and branching patterns of each subtype. Physiological analysis showed that subtypes exhibit distinct thresholds and ranges of responses to mechanical and/or thermal stimuli. The somatosensory neuron toolbox thus enables comprehensive phenotyping of most principal sensory neuron subtypes. Moreover, our findings support a population coding scheme in which the activation thresholds of morphologically and physiologically distinct cutaneous DRG neuron subtypes tile multiple dimensions of stimulus space.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Qi
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Michael Iskols
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
| | - David Shi
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Pranav Reddy
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Christopher Walker
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY
| | - Karina Lezgiyeva
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Tiphaine Voisin
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Mathias Pawlak
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Vijay K. Kuchroo
- Evergrande Center for Immunologic Diseases, Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Isaac Chiu
- Department of Immunology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115
| | - David D. Ginty
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
| | - Nikhil Sharma
- Department of Neurobiology, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Harvard Medical School, 220 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Department of Systems Biology, Columbia University, New York, NY
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21
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Talagas M. Anatomical contacts between sensory neurons and epidermal cells: an unrecognized anatomical network for neuro-immuno-cutaneous crosstalk. Br J Dermatol 2023; 188:176-185. [PMID: 36763869 DOI: 10.1093/bjd/ljac066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Sensory neurons innervating the skin are conventionally thought to be the sole transducers of touch, temperature, pain and itch. However, recent studies have shown that keratinocytes - like Merkel cells - act as sensory transducers, whether for innocuous or noxious mechanical, thermal or chemical stimuli, and communicate with intraepidermal free nerve endings via chemical synaptic contacts. This paradigm shift leads to consideration of the whole epidermis as a sensory epithelium. Sensory neurons additionally function as an efferent system. Through the release of neuropeptides in intimate neuroepidermal contact areas, they contribute to epidermal homeostasis and to the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases. To counteract the dogma regarding neurocutaneous interactions, seen exclusively from the perspective of soluble and spreading mediators, this review highlights the essential contribution of the unrecognized anatomical contacts between sensory neurons and epidermal cells (keratinocytes, melanocytes, Langerhans cells and Merkel cells), which take part in the reciprocal dialogue between the skin, nervous system and immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthieu Talagas
- University of Brest, LIEN, F-29200 Brest, France.,Department of Dermatology, Brest University Hospital, Brest, France
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22
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Nigro C, Koroshetz WJ. NINDS Corner: The Helping to End Addiction Long-Term Initiative and Pain Neurology. Ann Neurol 2023; 93:213-215. [PMID: 36479980 DOI: 10.1002/ana.26567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Nigro
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Walter J Koroshetz
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA
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23
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Dobrzeniecka W, Daca M, Nowakowska B, Sobiesiak M, Szewczyk-Golec K, Woźniak A, Hołyńska-Iwan I. The Impact of Diclofenac Gel on Ion Transport in the Rabbit ( Oryctolagus cuniculus) Skin: An In Vitro Study. Molecules 2023; 28:molecules28031332. [PMID: 36770998 PMCID: PMC9920221 DOI: 10.3390/molecules28031332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/25/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Diclofenac belongs to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory effects. Diclofenac administration on the skin may be associated with the appearance of side effects. The study aimed to evaluate the impact of diclofenac gel on transepithelial electrophysiological parameters of the 55 rabbit abdomen skin specimens. The electric parameters were analyzed in a modified Ussing chamber. The resistance (R) of the skin specimens treated with diclofenac gel significantly increased, which could be related to the reduction in the water content in intercellular spaces and, consequently, tighter adhesion of the cells. Increased electric potential (PD) was also observed in the skin specimens treated with diclofenac gel. The increase in both R and PD measured under stationary conditions was most likely caused by a transient and reversible increase in sodium ion transport, as the R and PD values decreased after the diclofenac gel was washed away. However, diclofenac gel did not affect the maximum and minimum PDs measured during stimulations. Therefore, it seems that diclofenac gel does not affect the perception of stimuli in the model system used.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wioletta Dobrzeniecka
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Daca
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Barbara Nowakowska
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Marta Sobiesiak
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Karolina Szewczyk-Golec
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Alina Woźniak
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.W.); (I.H.-I.)
| | - Iga Hołyńska-Iwan
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
- Correspondence: (A.W.); (I.H.-I.)
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Towards a mechanistic understanding of axon transport and endocytic changes underlying paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy. Exp Neurol 2023; 359:114258. [PMID: 36279934 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2022.114258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Paclitaxel is a common chemotherapeutic agent widely used to treat solid cancer. However, it frequently causes peripheral sensory neuropathy, resulting in sensory abnormalities and pain in patients receiving treatment for cancer. As one of the most widely used chemotherapeutics, many preclinical studies on paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy (PIPN) have been performed. Yet, there remain no effective options for treatment or prevention. Due to paclitaxel's ability to bind to and stabilize microtubules, a change in microtubule dynamics and subsequent disruptions in axonal transport has been predicted as a major underlying cause of paclitaxel-induced toxicity. However, the systemic understanding of PIPN mechanisms is largely incomplete, and various phenotypes have not been directly attributed to microtubule-related effects. This review aims to provide an overview of the literature involving paclitaxel-induced alteration in microtubule dynamics, axonal transport, and endocytic changes. It also aims to provide insights into how the microtubule-mediated hypothesis may relate to various phenotypes reported in PIPN studies.
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25
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Rosa JB, Nassman KY, Sagasti A. Sensory axons induce epithelial lipid microdomain remodeling and determine the distribution of junctions in the epidermis. Mol Biol Cell 2023; 34:ar5. [PMID: 36322392 PMCID: PMC9816649 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e22-09-0396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Epithelial cell properties are determined by the polarized distribution of membrane lipids, the cytoskeleton, and adhesive junctions. Epithelia are often profusely innervated, but little work has addressed how neurites affect epithelial organization. We previously found that basal keratinocytes in the zebrafish epidermis enclose axons in ensheathment channels sealed by autotypic junctions. Here we characterized how axons remodel cell membranes, the cytoskeleton, and junctions in basal keratinocytes. At the apical surface of basal keratinocytes, axons organized lipid microdomains quantitatively enriched in reporters for PI(4,5)P2 and liquid-ordered (Lo) membranes. Lipid microdomains supported the formation of cadherin-enriched, F-actin protrusions, which wrapped around axons, likely initiating ensheathment. In the absence of axons, cadherin-enriched microdomains formed on basal cells but did not organize into contiguous domains. Instead, these isolated domains formed heterotypic junctions with periderm cells, a distinct epithelial cell type. Thus, axon endings dramatically remodel polarized epithelial components and regulate epidermal adhesion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey B. Rosa
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Khaled Y. Nassman
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
| | - Alvaro Sagasti
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology and Molecular Biology Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA 90095
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26
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Slominski AT, Slominski RM, Raman C, Chen JY, Athar M, Elmets C. Neuroendocrine signaling in the skin with a special focus on the epidermal neuropeptides. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C1757-C1776. [PMID: 36317800 PMCID: PMC9744652 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00147.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 10/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The skin, which is comprised of the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous tissue, is the largest organ in the human body and it plays a crucial role in the regulation of the body's homeostasis. These functions are regulated by local neuroendocrine and immune systems with a plethora of signaling molecules produced by resident and immune cells. In addition, neurotransmitters, endocrine factors, neuropeptides, and cytokines released from nerve endings play a central role in the skin's responses to stress. These molecules act on the corresponding receptors in an intra-, juxta-, para-, or autocrine fashion. The epidermis as the outer most component of skin forms a barrier directly protecting against environmental stressors. This protection is assured by an intrinsic keratinocyte differentiation program, pigmentary system, and local nervous, immune, endocrine, and microbiome elements. These constituents communicate cross-functionally among themselves and with corresponding systems in the dermis and hypodermis to secure the basic epidermal functions to maintain local (skin) and global (systemic) homeostasis. The neurohormonal mediators and cytokines used in these communications regulate physiological skin functions separately or in concert. Disturbances in the functions in these systems lead to cutaneous pathology that includes inflammatory (i.e., psoriasis, allergic, or atopic dermatitis, etc.) and keratinocytic hyperproliferative disorders (i.e., seborrheic and solar keratoses), dysfunction of adnexal structure (i.e., hair follicles, eccrine, and sebaceous glands), hypersensitivity reactions, pigmentary disorders (vitiligo, melasma, and hypo- or hyperpigmentary responses), premature aging, and malignancies (melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancers). These cellular, molecular, and neural components preserve skin integrity and protect against skin pathologies and can act as "messengers of the skin" to the central organs, all to preserve organismal survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrzej T Slominski
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Radomir M Slominski
- Graduate Biomedical Sciences Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Chander Raman
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Jake Y Chen
- Informatics Institute, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Mohammad Athar
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Craig Elmets
- Department of Dermatology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Cancer Chemoprevention Program, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
- VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
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27
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Xu X, Yu C, Xu L, Xu J. Emerging roles of keratinocytes in nociceptive transduction and regulation. Front Mol Neurosci 2022; 15:982202. [PMID: 36157074 PMCID: PMC9500148 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2022.982202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Keratinocytes are the predominant block-building cells in the epidermis. Emerging evidence has elucidated the roles of keratinocytes in a wide range of pathophysiological processes including cutaneous nociception, pruritus, and inflammation. Intraepidermal free nerve endings are entirely enwrapped within the gutters of keratinocyte cytoplasm and form en passant synaptic-like contacts with keratinocytes. Keratinocytes can detect thermal, mechanical, and chemical stimuli through transient receptor potential ion channels and other sensory receptors. The activated keratinocytes elicit calcium influx and release ATP, which binds to P2 receptors on free nerve endings and excites sensory neurons. This process is modulated by the endogenous opioid system and endothelin. Keratinocytes also express neurotransmitter receptors of adrenaline, acetylcholine, glutamate, and γ-aminobutyric acid, which are involved in regulating the activation and migration, of keratinocytes. Furthermore, keratinocytes serve as both sources and targets of neurotrophic factors, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and neuropeptides. The autocrine and/or paracrine mechanisms of these mediators create a bidirectional feedback loop that amplifies neuroinflammation and contributes to peripheral sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohan Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Catherine Yu
- Department of Pain Management, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland, OH, United States,Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH, United States,Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China,*Correspondence: Li Xu,
| | - Jijun Xu
- Department of Pain Management, Anesthesiology Institute, Cleveland, OH, United States,Department of Inflammation and Immunity, Lerner Research Institute, Cleveland, OH, United States,Cleveland Clinic, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH, United States,*Correspondence: Li Xu,
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28
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Mikesell AR, Isaeva O, Moehring F, Sadler KE, Menzel AD, Stucky CL. Keratinocyte PIEZO1 modulates cutaneous mechanosensation. eLife 2022; 11:e65987. [PMID: 36053009 PMCID: PMC9512397 DOI: 10.7554/elife.65987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidermal keratinocytes mediate touch sensation by detecting and encoding tactile information to sensory neurons. However, the specific mechanotransducers that enable keratinocytes to respond to mechanical stimulation are unknown. Here, we found that the mechanically-gated ion channel PIEZO1 is a key keratinocyte mechanotransducer. Keratinocyte expression of PIEZO1 is critical for normal sensory afferent firing and behavioral responses to mechanical stimuli in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander R Mikesell
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of WisconsinWauwatosaUnited States
| | - Olena Isaeva
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of WisconsinWauwatosaUnited States
| | - Francie Moehring
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of WisconsinWauwatosaUnited States
| | - Katelyn E Sadler
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of WisconsinWauwatosaUnited States
| | - Anthony D Menzel
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of WisconsinWauwatosaUnited States
| | - Cheryl L Stucky
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of WisconsinWauwatosaUnited States
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29
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Eller OC, Stair RN, Neal C, Rowe PS, Nelson-Brantley J, Young EE, Baumbauer KM. Comprehensive phenotyping of cutaneous afferents reveals early-onset alterations in nociceptor response properties, release of CGRP, and hindpaw edema following spinal cord injury. NEUROBIOLOGY OF PAIN (CAMBRIDGE, MASS.) 2022; 12:100097. [PMID: 35756343 PMCID: PMC9218836 DOI: 10.1016/j.ynpai.2022.100097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a complex syndrome that has profound effects on patient well-being, including the development of medically-resistant chronic pain. The mechanisms underlying SCI pain have been the subject of thorough investigation but remain poorly understood. While the majority of the research has focused on changes occurring within and surrounding the site of injury in the spinal cord, there is now a consensus that alterations within the peripheral nervous system, namely sensitization of nociceptors, contribute to the development and maintenance of chronic SCI pain. Using an ex vivo skin/nerve/DRG/spinal cord preparation to characterize afferent response properties following SCI, we found that SCI increased mechanical and thermal responding, as well as the incidence of spontaneous activity (SA) and afterdischarge (AD), in below-level C-fiber nociceptors 24 hr following injury relative to naïve controls. Interestingly, the distribution of nociceptors that exhibit SA and AD are not identical, and the development of SA was observed more frequently in nociceptors with low heat thresholds, while AD was found more frequently in nociceptors with high heat thresholds. We also found that SCI resulted in hindpaw edema and elevated cutaneous calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) concentration that were not observed in naïve mice. These results suggest that SCI causes a rapidly developing nociceptor sensitization and peripheral inflammation that may contribute to the early emergence and persistence of chronic SCI pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia C. Eller
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Rena N. Stair
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Christopher Neal
- Kansas Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Peter S.N. Rowe
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- The Kidney Institute & Division of Nephrology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Jennifer Nelson-Brantley
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
| | - Erin E. Young
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- Center for Advancement in Managing Pain, School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Department of Genetics and Genome Sciences, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, United States
| | - Kyle M. Baumbauer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, United States
- Center for Advancement in Managing Pain, School of Nursing, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, United States
- Department of Neuroscience, UConn Health, Farmington, CT, United States
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30
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Lewis CM, Griffith TN. The mechanisms of cold encoding. Curr Opin Neurobiol 2022; 75:102571. [DOI: 10.1016/j.conb.2022.102571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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In Vitro Sensitive Skin Models: Review of the Standard Methods and Introduction to a New Disruptive Technology. COSMETICS 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/cosmetics9040067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The skin is a protective organ, able to decode a wide range of tactile, thermal, or noxious stimuli. Some of the sensors belonging to the transient receptor potential (TRP) family, for example, TRPV1, can elicit capsaicin-induced heat pain or histamine-induced itching sensations. The sensory nerve fibers, whose soma is located in the trigeminal or the dorsal root ganglia, are able to carry signals from the skin’s sensory receptors toward the brain via the spinal cord. In some cases, in response to environmental factors, nerve endings might be hyper activated, leading to a sensitive skin syndrome (SSS). SSS affects about 50% of the population and is correlated with small-fiber neuropathies resulting in neuropathic pain. Thus, for cosmetical and pharmaceutical industries developing SSS treatments, the selection of relevant and predictive in vitro models is essential. In this article, we reviewed the different in vitro models developed for the assessment of skin and neuron interactions. In a second part, we presented the advantages of microfluidic devices and organ-on-chip models, with a focus on the first model we developed in this context.
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Lin X, Xu Z, Carey L, Romero J, Makriyannis A, Hillard CJ, Ruggiero E, Dockum M, Houk G, Mackie K, Albrecht PJ, Rice FL, Hohmann AG. A peripheral CB2 cannabinoid receptor mechanism suppresses chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy: evidence from a CB2 reporter mouse. Pain 2022; 163:834-851. [PMID: 35001054 PMCID: PMC8942871 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT CB2 cannabinoid receptors (CB2) are a promising therapeutic target that lacks unwanted side effects of CB1 activation. However, the cell types expressing CB2 that mediate these effects remain poorly understood. We used transgenic mice with CB2 promoter-driven expression of enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP) to study cell types that express CB2 and suppress neuropathic nociception in a mouse model of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Structurally distinct CB2 agonists (AM1710 and LY2828360) suppressed paclitaxel-induced mechanical and cold allodynia in CB2EGFP reporter mice with established neuropathy. Antiallodynic effects of AM1710 were blocked by SR144528, a CB2 antagonist with limited CNS penetration. Intraplantar AM1710 administration suppressed paclitaxel-induced neuropathic nociception in CB2EGFP but not CB2 knockout mice, consistent with a local site of antiallodynic action. mRNA expression levels of the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 were elevated in the lumbar spinal cord after intraplantar AM1710 injection along with the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor alpha and chemokine monocyte chemoattractant protein-1. CB2EGFP, but not wildtype mice, exhibited anti-GFP immunoreactivity in the spleen. However, the anti-GFP signal was below the threshold for detection in the spinal cord and brain of either vehicle-treated or paclitaxel-treated CB2EGFP mice. EGFP fluorescence was coexpressed with CB2 immunolabeling in stratified patterns among epidermal keratinocytes. EGFP fluorescence was also expressed in dendritic cells in the dermis, Langerhans cells in the epidermis, and Merkel cells. Quantification of the EGFP signal revealed that Langerhans cells were dynamically increased in the epidermis after paclitaxel treatment. Our studies implicate CB2 expressed in previously unrecognized populations of skin cells as a potential target for suppressing chemotherapy-induced neuropathic nociception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Lin
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Zhili Xu
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Lawrence Carey
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Julian Romero
- Faculty of Experimental Sciences, Universidad Francisco de Vitoria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alexandros Makriyannis
- School of Pharmacy, Bouvé College of Health Sciences, Center for Drug Discovery, College of Science, Health Sciences Entrepreneurs, Northeastern University, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Cecilia J. Hillard
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Neuroscience Research Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, United States
| | | | - Marilyn Dockum
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - George Houk
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Ken Mackie
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | | | - Frank L. Rice
- Integrated Tissue Dynamics LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Andrea G. Hohmann
- Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Program in Neuroscience, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
- Gill Center for Biomolecular Science, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
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33
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Eid ES, Kurban MS. A Piez-O the Jigsaw: Piezo1 Channel in Skin Biology. Clin Exp Dermatol 2022; 47:1036-1047. [PMID: 35181897 DOI: 10.1111/ced.15138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The skin is the largest organ covering the entirety of the body. Its role as a physical barrier to the outside world as well as its endocrinologic and immunologic functions subject it to continuous internal and external mechanical forces. Thus, mechanotransduction is of the utmost importance for the skin in order to process and leverage mechanical input for its various functions. Piezo1 is a mechanosensitive ion channel that is a primary mediator of mechanotransduction and is highly expressed in the skin. The Nobel prize winning discovery of Piezo1 has had a profound impact on our understanding of physiology and pathology including paramount contributions in cutaneous biology. This review provides insight into the roles of Piezo1 in the development, physiology, and pathology of the skin with a special emphasis on the molecular pathways through which it instigates these various roles. In epidermal homeostasis, Piezo1 mediates cell extrusion and division in the face of overcrowding and low cellular density conditions, respectively. Piezo1 also aids in orchestrating mechanosensation, DNA protection from mechanical stress, and the various components of wound healing. Conversely, Piezo1 is pathologically implicated in melanoma progression, wound healing delay, cutaneous scarring, and hair loss. By shedding light on these functions, we aim to unravel the potential diagnostic and therapeutic value Piezo1 might hold in the field of Dermatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edward S Eid
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Mazen S Kurban
- Department of Dermatology, American University of Beirut Medical Centre, Beirut, Lebanon.,Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics; American University of Beirut.,Division of Genomics and Translational Biomedicine, College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
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34
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Kopsky DJ, Keppel Hesselink JM, Russell AL, Vrancken AFJE. No Detectable Phenytoin Plasma Levels After Topical Phenytoin Cream Application in Chronic Pain: Inferences for Mechanisms of Action. J Pain Res 2022; 15:377-383. [PMID: 35173477 PMCID: PMC8843343 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s345347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Topical phenytoin can act as an analgesic in chronic pain, but it is unclear if topical phenytoin gives rise to systemic side effects. Therefore, the aim of this study is: 1) to evaluate safety in chronic pain patients who used topical phenytoin up to 30% applied daily on intact skin and mucous membrane, through determining phenytoin plasma levels; and 2) to elaborate on the analgesic mechanism of action. Patients and Methods In this retrospective study, we collected demographic and clinical data from 33 chronic pain patients who used 10% to 30% phenytoin cream, and in whom blood samples were drawn for phenytoin concentration measurement between January 2017 until September 2020. The instruction was to withdraw blood 1 to 4 hours after the last topical phenytoin application. The primary outcome was the detectability of plasma phenytoin after daily use of topical phenytoin. Results Blood withdrawal was carried out after on average 14 treatment days with topical phenytoin and on average 2.5 hours after topical phenytoin application. The median daily applied amount of phenytoin cream was 1.2 grams, resulting in a median daily amount of 120 mg phenytoin on the skin. Phenytoin levels were below the limit of detection in all patients and no side effects were reported. Conclusion Plasma phenytoin levels were below the limit of detection after topical use of phenytoin cream formulations up to 30% on intact skin and mucous membrane for the treatment of chronic pain, without side effects emerging. This finding suggests that the mechanism of analgesic action resides in the skin.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Kopsky
- Institute for Neuropathic Pain, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Correspondence: David J Kopsky, Vespuccistraat 64-III, Amsterdam, 1056 SN, the Netherlands, Tel +31-6-28671847, Email
| | | | | | - Alexander F J E Vrancken
- Department of Neurology, Brain Centre University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, the Netherlands
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35
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Romhányi D, Szabó K, Kemény L, Sebestyén E, Groma G. Transcriptional Analysis-Based Alterations Affecting Neuritogenesis of the Peripheral Nervous System in Psoriasis. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:111. [PMID: 35054504 PMCID: PMC8778302 DOI: 10.3390/life12010111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 01/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
An increasing amount of evidence indicates the critical role of the cutaneous nervous system in the initiation and maintenance of psoriatic skin lesions by neurogenic inflammation. However, molecular mechanisms affecting cutaneous neurons are largely uncharacterized. Therefore, we reanalyzed a psoriatic RNA sequencing dataset from published transcriptome experiments of nearly 300 individuals. Using the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis software, we associated several hundreds of differentially expressed transcripts (DETs) to nervous system development and functions. Since neuronal projections were previously reported to be affected in psoriasis, we performed an in-depth analysis of neurite formation-related process. Our in silico analysis suggests that SEMA-PLXN and ROBO-DCC-UNC5 regulating axonal growth and repulsion are differentially affected in non-lesional and lesional skin samples. We identified opposing expressional alterations in secreted ligands for axonal guidance signaling (RTN4/NOGOA, NTNs, SEMAs, SLITs) and non-conventional axon guidance regulating ligands, including WNT5A and their receptors, modulating axon formation. These differences in neuritogenesis may explain the abnormal cutaneous nerve filament formation described in psoriatic skin. The processes also influence T-cell activation and infiltration, thus highlighting an additional angle of the crosstalk between the cutaneous nervous system and the immune responses in psoriasis pathogenesis, in addition to the known neurogenic pro-inflammatory mediators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dóra Romhányi
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (D.R.); (K.S.); (L.K.)
| | - Kornélia Szabó
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (D.R.); (K.S.); (L.K.)
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine-University of Szeged Skin Research Group (HCEMM-USZ Skin Research Group), University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network, MTA-SZTE Dermatological Research Group, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Lajos Kemény
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (D.R.); (K.S.); (L.K.)
- Hungarian Centre of Excellence for Molecular Medicine-University of Szeged Skin Research Group (HCEMM-USZ Skin Research Group), University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network, MTA-SZTE Dermatological Research Group, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Endre Sebestyén
- 1st Department of Pathology and Experimental Cancer Research, Semmelweis University, H-1085 Budapest, Hungary;
| | - Gergely Groma
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Szeged, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary; (D.R.); (K.S.); (L.K.)
- Eötvös Loránd Research Network, MTA-SZTE Dermatological Research Group, H-6720 Szeged, Hungary
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36
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Shindo Y, Fujita K, Tanaka M, Fujio H, Hotta K, Oka K. Mechanical stimulus-evoked signal transduction between keratinocytes and sensory neurons via extracellular ATP. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2021; 582:131-136. [PMID: 34710828 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2021.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The skin is exposed to various external stimuli. Keratinocytes, which are the main cell type in the epidermis, interact with peripheral sensory neurons and modulate neuronal activity. Recent studies have revealed that keratinocytes play crucial roles in nociception, and that ATP is one of the main mediators of signal transduction from keratinocytes to sensory neurons. However, no quantitative cellular level analyses of ATP-mediated information flow from keratinocytes to sensory dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons have been conducted. In this study, we performed simultaneous imaging of cell surface ATP and intracellular Ca2+ signals using both iATPSnFR, a genetically encoded ATP probe localized to the outside of the cell membrane, and the Ca2+ probe, Fura-red. Upon mechanical stimulation of the keratinocyte with a glass needle, an increase in Ca2+ and ATP release were observed around the stimulated area, and these phenomena were positively correlated. In cultured DRG neurons and keratinocytes neighboring the stimulated keratinocyte, increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration and levels of cell surface ATP on the side closer to the stimulated cell were detected. The ratio of Ca2+ response to input ATP signal was significantly larger in DRG neurons than in keratinocytes. We found that DRG neurons were more sensitive to ATP than keratinocytes, and therefore, only DRG neurons responded to ATP at 1 μM or lower concentrations when in co-culture with keratinocytes. Moreover, signals caused by moderate mechanical stimulation of keratinocytes were transmitted predominantly to DRG neurons. These findings would be important in the further determination of the detailed mechanism of nociception in the epidermis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Shindo
- Department of Bioscience and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Keigo Fujita
- Department of Bioscience and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Mari Tanaka
- Department of Bioscience and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Hiroki Fujio
- Department of Bioscience and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Kohji Hotta
- Department of Bioscience and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan
| | - Kotaro Oka
- Department of Bioscience and Informatics, Faculty of Science and Technology, Keio University, 3-14-1 Hiyoshi, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 223-8522, Japan; Waseda Research Institute for Science and Engineering, Waseda University, 2-2 Wakamatsucho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, 162-8480, Japan; Graduate Institute of Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung City, 80708, Taiwan.
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37
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Albrecht PJ, Houk G, Ruggiero E, Dockum M, Czerwinski M, Betts J, Wymer JP, Argoff CE, Rice FL. Keratinocyte Biomarkers Distinguish Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy Patients and Correlate With Topical Lidocaine Responsiveness. FRONTIERS IN PAIN RESEARCH 2021; 2:790524. [PMID: 35295428 PMCID: PMC8915676 DOI: 10.3389/fpain.2021.790524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
This study investigated quantifiable measures of cutaneous innervation and algesic keratinocyte biomarkers to determine correlations with clinical measures of patient pain perception, with the intent to better discriminate between diabetic patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN) compared to patients with low-pain diabetic peripheral neuropathy (lpDPN) or healthy control subjects. A secondary objective was to determine if topical treatment with a 5% lidocaine patch resulted in correlative changes among the quantifiable biomarkers and clinical measures of pain perception, indicative of potential PDPN pain relief. This open-label proof-of-principle clinical research study consisted of a pre-treatment skin biopsy, a 4-week topical 5% lidocaine patch treatment regimen for all patients and controls, and a post-treatment skin biopsy. Clinical measures of pain and functional interference were used to monitor patient symptoms and response for correlation with quantitative skin biopsy biomarkers of innervation (PGP9.5 and CGRP), and epidermal keratinocyte biomarkers (Nav1.6, Nav1.7, CGRP). Importantly, comparable significant losses of epidermal neural innervation (intraepidermal nerve fibers; IENF) and dermal innervation were observed among PDPN and lpDPN patients compared with control subjects, indicating that innervation loss alone may not be the driver of pain in diabetic neuropathy. In pre-treatment biopsies, keratinocyte Nav1.6, Nav1.7, and CGRP immunolabeling were all significantly increased among PDPN patients compared with control subjects. Importantly, no keratinocyte biomarkers were significantly increased among the lpDPN group compared with control. In post-treatment biopsies, the keratinocyte Nav1.6, Nav1.7, and CGRP immunolabeling intensities were no longer different between control, lpDPN, or PDPN cohorts, indicating that lidocaine treatment modified the PDPN-related keratinocyte increases. Analysis of the PDPN responder population demonstrated that increased pretreatment keratinocyte biomarker immunolabeling for Nav1.6, Nav1.7, and CGRP correlated with positive outcomes to topical lidocaine treatment. Epidermal keratinocytes modulate the signaling of IENF, and several analgesic and algesic signaling systems have been identified. These results further implicate epidermal signaling mechanisms as modulators of neuropathic pain conditions, highlight a novel potential mode of action for topical treatments, and demonstrate the utility of comprehensive skin biopsy evaluation to identify novel biomarkers in clinical pain studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phillip J. Albrecht
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
- Division of Health Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Phillip J. Albrecht
| | - George Houk
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Elizabeth Ruggiero
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - Marilyn Dockum
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | | | - Joseph Betts
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
| | - James P. Wymer
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Charles E. Argoff
- Department of Neurology, Albany Medical Center, Albany, NY, United States
| | - Frank L. Rice
- Neuroscience and Pain Research Group, Integrated Tissue Dynamics, LLC, Rensselaer, NY, United States
- Division of Health Sciences, University at Albany, Albany, NY, United States
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38
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Abe Y, Nishizawa M. Electrical aspects of skin as a pathway to engineering skin devices. APL Bioeng 2021; 5:041509. [PMID: 34849444 PMCID: PMC8604566 DOI: 10.1063/5.0064529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Skin is one of the indispensable organs for life. The epidermis at the outermost surface provides a permeability barrier to infectious agents, chemicals, and excessive loss of water, while the dermis and subcutaneous tissue mechanically support the structure of the skin and appendages, including hairs and secretory glands. The integrity of the integumentary system is a key for general health, and many techniques have been developed to measure and control this protective function. In contrast, the effective skin barrier is the major obstacle for transdermal delivery and detection. Changes in the electrical properties of skin, such as impedance and ionic activity, is a practical indicator that reflects the structures and functions of the skin. For example, the impedance that reflects the hydration of the skin is measured for quantitative assessment in skincare, and the current generated across a wound is used for the evaluation and control of wound healing. Furthermore, the electrically charged structure of the skin enables transdermal drug delivery and chemical extraction. This paper provides an overview of the electrical aspects of the skin and summarizes current advances in the development of devices based on these features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuina Abe
- Department of Finemechanics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-01 Aramaki-aza Aoba, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8579, Japan
| | - Matsuhiko Nishizawa
- Department of Finemechanics, Graduate School of Engineering, Tohoku University, 6-6-01 Aramaki-aza Aoba, Aoba-ku, Sendai 980-8579, Japan
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39
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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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40
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Denda M, Nakanishi S. Do epidermal keratinocytes have sensory and information processing systems? Exp Dermatol 2021; 31:459-474. [PMID: 34726302 DOI: 10.1111/exd.14494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
It was long considered that the role of epidermal keratinocytes is solely to construct a water-impermeable protective membrane, the stratum corneum, at the uppermost layer of the skin. However, in the last two decades, it has been found that keratinocytes contain multiple sensory systems that detect environmental changes, including mechanical stimuli, sound, visible radiation, electric fields, magnetic fields, temperature and chemical stimuli, and also a variety of receptor molecules associated with olfactory or taste sensation. Moreover, neurotransmitters and their receptors that play crucial roles in the brain are functionally expressed in keratinocytes. Recent studies have demonstrated that excitation of keratinocytes can induce sensory perception in the brain. Here, we review the sensory and information processing capabilities of keratinocytes. We discuss the possibility that epidermal keratinocytes might represent the earliest stage in the development of the brain during the evolution of vertebrates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mitsuhiro Denda
- Institute for Advanced Study of Mathematical Sciences, Meiji University, Nakano-ku, Tokyo, 164-8525, Japan
| | - Shinobu Nakanishi
- Shiseido Global Innovation Center, Nishi-ku, Yokohama, 220-0011, Japan
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41
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Karl F, Bischler T, Egenolf N, Evdokimov D, Heckel T, Üçeyler N. Fibromyalgia vs small fiber neuropathy: diverse keratinocyte transcriptome signature. Pain 2021; 162:2569-2577. [PMID: 33675632 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Damage to thinly myelinated and unmyelinated nerve fibers causes small fiber pathology, which is increasingly found in pain syndromes such as small fiber neuropathy (SFN) and fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). The peripheral nerve endings of the small nerve fibers terminate within the epidermis, where they are surrounded by keratinocytes that may act as primary nociceptive transducers. We performed RNA sequencing of keratinocytes obtained from patients with SFN, FMS, and healthy controls. We found 141 deregulated protein coding genes between SFN patients and healthy controls and no differentially expressed genes between patients with FMS and healthy controls. When comparing patients with SFN with patients with FMS, we detected 167 differentially expressed protein coding genes (129 upregulated and 38 downregulated). Further analysis revealed enriched inflammatory pathways. Validation of selected candidates in an independent cohort confirmed higher expression of the proinflammatory mediators interleukin-8, C-X-C motif chemokine 3, endothelin receptor type A, and the voltage-gated sodium channel 1.7 in SFN compared with patients with FMS. We provide a diverse keratinocyte transcriptome signature between patients with SFN and patients with FMS, which may hint toward distinct pathomechanisms of small fiber sensitization in both entities and lay the basis for advanced diagnostics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Karl
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Nadine Egenolf
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | | | - Tobias Heckel
- Core Unit SysMed, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Nurcan Üçeyler
- Department of Neurology, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
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42
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Hołyńska-Iwan I, Smyk P, Chrustek A, Olszewska-Słonina D, Szewczyk-Golec K. The influence of hydration status on ion transport in the rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) skin-An in vitro study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0255825. [PMID: 34383789 PMCID: PMC8360594 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0255825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The preservation of physiological transport of ions and water content is particularly important for maintaining the skin barrier, touch and pain stimuli, as well as the initiation of skin regeneration processes, especially after treatments associated with breaking skin continuity and wound healing difficulties. The aim of the study was to assess changes in ion transport, measured as values of transepithelial electric resistance and potential difference in stationary conditions and during mechanical-chemical stimulations, depending on the hydration status of isolated rabbit skin specimens. The specimens were divided into five groups: control (n = 22), dehydrated in 10% NaCl (n = 30), rehydrated after dehydration (n = 26), dried at 37°C (n = 26), and rehydrated after drying (n = 25). Dehydrated tissue samples showed altered resistance compared to the control; this change was maintained regardless of rehydration. In the dehydrated samples, changes in the measured electric potential were also noted, which returned to values comparable with the control after rehydration. Dehydrated skin, regardless of the cause of dehydration, responds with changes in the transport of sodium and chloride ions and the altered cellular microenvironment. It could influence the perception of stimuli, particularly pain, and slow down the regeneration processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iga Hołyńska-Iwan
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Paulina Smyk
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
- Department of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Chrustek
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
| | - Dorota Olszewska-Słonina
- Department of Pathobiochemistry and Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
| | - Karolina Szewczyk-Golec
- Department of Medical Biology and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Ludwik Rydygier Collegium Medicum in Bydgoszcz, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Toruń, Poland
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43
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Sadler KE, Moehring F, Shiers SI, Laskowski LJ, Mikesell AR, Plautz ZR, Brezinski AN, Mecca CM, Dussor G, Price TJ, McCorvy JD, Stucky CL. Transient receptor potential canonical 5 mediates inflammatory mechanical and spontaneous pain in mice. Sci Transl Med 2021; 13:13/595/eabd7702. [PMID: 34039739 DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.abd7702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 02/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Tactile and spontaneous pains are poorly managed symptoms of inflammatory and neuropathic injury. Here, we found that transient receptor potential canonical 5 (TRPC5) is a chief contributor to both of these sensations in multiple rodent pain models. Use of TRPC5 knockout mice and inhibitors revealed that TRPC5 selectively contributes to the mechanical hypersensitivity associated with CFA injection, skin incision, chemotherapy induced peripheral neuropathy, sickle cell disease, and migraine, all of which were characterized by elevated concentrations of lysophosphatidylcholine (LPC). Accordingly, exogenous application of LPC induced TRPC5-dependent behavioral mechanical allodynia, neuronal mechanical hypersensitivity, and spontaneous pain in naïve mice. Lastly, we found that 75% of human sensory neurons express TRPC5, the activity of which is directly modulated by LPC. On the basis of these results, TRPC5 inhibitors might effectively treat spontaneous and tactile pain in conditions characterized by elevated LPC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelyn E Sadler
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Francie Moehring
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Stephanie I Shiers
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Lauren J Laskowski
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Alexander R Mikesell
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Zakary R Plautz
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Allison N Brezinski
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Christina M Mecca
- Department of Anesthesiology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Gregory Dussor
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - Theodore J Price
- School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences and Center for Advanced Pain Studies, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX 75080, USA
| | - John D McCorvy
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Cheryl L Stucky
- Department of Cell Biology, Neurobiology and Anatomy, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA.
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44
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Najjar SA, Albers KM. Pain in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Optogenetic Strategies for Study of Neural-Epithelial Signaling. CROHN'S & COLITIS 360 2021; 3:otab040. [PMID: 34805983 PMCID: PMC8600958 DOI: 10.1093/crocol/otab040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Abdominal pain is common in patients with active inflammation of the colon but can persist even in its absence, suggesting other mechanisms of pain signaling. Recent findings suggest colon epithelial cells are direct regulators of pain-sensing neurons. Optogenetic activation of epithelial cells evoked nerve firing and pain-like behaviors. Inhibition of epithelial cells caused the opposite effect, reducing responses to colon distension and inflammatory hypersensitivity. Thus, epithelial cells alone can regulate the activation of pain circuits. Future goals are to define the anatomical and cellular mechanisms that underlie epithelial-neural pain signaling and how it is altered in response to colon inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Najjar
- Department of Neurobiology and Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA,Present address: Department of Pediatrics, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York, USA
| | - Kathryn M Albers
- Department of Neurobiology and Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA,Address correspondence to: Kathryn M. Albers, PhD, Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh, 200 Lothrop Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15216, USA ()
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45
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Porous microneedle-based wearable device for monitoring of transepidermal potential. BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING ADVANCES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bea.2021.100004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
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46
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Differential impact of keratinocytes and fibroblasts on nociceptor degeneration and sensitization in small fiber neuropathy. Pain 2021; 162:1262-1272. [PMID: 33196576 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Peripheral denervation and pain are hallmarks of small fiber neuropathy (SFN). We investigated the contribution of skin cells on nociceptor degeneration and sensitization. We recruited 56 patients with SFN and 31 healthy controls and collected skin punch biopsies for immunohistochemical and immunocytochemical analysis of netrin-1 (NTN1) and proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokine expression patterns. We further applied coculture systems with murine dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons for skin cell-nerve interaction studies and patch-clamp analysis. Human keratinocytes attract murine DRG neuron neurites, and the gene expression of the axon guidance cue NTN1 is higher in keratinocytes of patients with SFN than in controls. NTN1 slows and reduces murine sensory neurite outgrowth in vitro, but does not alter keratinocyte cytokine expression. In the naive state, keratinocytes of patients with SFN show a higher expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (P < 0.05), while fibroblasts display higher expression of the algesic cytokines interleukin (IL)-6 (P < 0.01) and IL-8 (P < 0.05). IL-6 incubation of murine DRG neurons leads to an increase in action potential firing rates compared with baseline (P < 0.01). Our data provide evidence for a differential effect of keratinocytes and fibroblasts on nociceptor degeneration and sensitization in SFN compared with healthy controls and further supports the concept of cutaneous nociception.
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47
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Mechanisms of Broad-Band UVB Irradiation‒Induced Itch in Mice. J Invest Dermatol 2021; 141:2499-2508.e3. [PMID: 33812858 DOI: 10.1016/j.jid.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although sunburn can produce severe uncontrollable itching, the underlying mechanisms of UV irradiation‒induced itch are poorly understood because of a lack of experimental animal models of sunburn itch. In this study, we established a sunburn-related mouse model and found that broad-band UVB irradiation elicited scratching but not wiping behavior in mice. Using a combination of live-cell calcium ion imaging and quantitative RT-PCR on dorsal root ganglion neurons, H&E staining, immunofluorescence staining of skin preparations, and behavioral testing, in combination with genetic and pharmacological approaches, we showed that TRPV1-positive dorsal root ganglion neurons but not mast cells are involved in broad-band UVB irradiation‒induced itch. Moreover, both genetic and pharmacological inhibition of TRPV1 function significantly alleviated the broad-band UVB irradiation‒induced itch response. Collectively, our results suggest that broad-band UVB irradiation evokes itch sensation in mice by promoting TRPV1 channel function in dorsal root ganglion neurons and provide potential therapeutic targets for sunburn-related itch.
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48
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Najjar SA, Ejoh LL, Loeza-Alcocer E, Edwards BS, Smith-Edwards KM, Epouhe AY, Gold MS, Davis BM, Albers KM. Optogenetic inhibition of the colon epithelium reduces hypersensitivity in a mouse model of inflammatory bowel disease. Pain 2021; 162:1126-1134. [PMID: 33048854 PMCID: PMC7969374 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Visceral pain is a prevalent symptom of inflammatory bowel disease that can be difficult to treat. Pain and hypersensitivity are mediated by extrinsic primary afferent neurons (ExPANs) that innervate the colon. Recent studies indicate that the colon epithelium contributes to initiating ExPAN firing and nociceptive responses. Based on these findings, we hypothesized that the epithelium contributes to inflammation-induced hypersensitivity. A key prediction of this hypothesis is that inhibition of the epithelium would attenuate nociceptive signaling and inflammatory hypersensitivity. To test this hypothesis, the inhibitory yellow light-activated protein archaerhodopsin was targeted to the intestinal epithelium (villin-Arch) or the ExPANs (TRPV1-Arch) that innervate the colon. Visceral sensitivity was assessed by measuring the visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distension (CRD), with and without yellow light illumination of the colon lumen. Inhibition of the colon epithelium in healthy villin-Arch mice significantly diminished the CRD-induced VMR. Direct inhibition of ExPANs during CRD using TRPV1-Arch mice showed that ExPAN and epithelial inhibition were similarly effective in reducing the VMR to CRD. We then investigated the effect of epithelial and ExPAN inhibition in the dextran sulfate sodium model of inflammatory bowel disease. Inhibition of the colon epithelium significantly decreased dextran sulfate sodium-induced hypersensitivity and was comparable with the inhibition of ExPANs. Together, these results reveal the potential of targeting the colon epithelium for the treatment of pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Najjar
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Lindsay L. Ejoh
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Emanuel Loeza-Alcocer
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Brian S. Edwards
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kristen M. Smith-Edwards
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Ariel Y. Epouhe
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael S. Gold
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Brian M. Davis
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Kathryn M. Albers
- Department of Neurobiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Pittsburgh Center for Pain Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Center for Neuroscience at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Han Y, Luo A, Kamau PM, Takomthong P, Hu J, Boonyarat C, Luo L, Lai R. A plant-derived TRPV3 inhibitor suppresses pain and itch. Br J Pharmacol 2021; 178:1669-1683. [PMID: 33501656 DOI: 10.1111/bph.15390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Itching is the most frequent pathology in dermatology that has significant impacts on people's mental health and social life. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) channel is a promising target for treating pruritus. However, few selecetive and potent antagonists have been reported. This study was designed to identify selective TRPV3 antagonist and elucidate its anti-pruritus pharmacology. EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH FlexStation and calcium fluorescence imaging were conducted to track the functional compounds. Whole-cell patch clamp was used to record itch-related ion channel currents. Homologous recombination and site-directed mutagenesis were employed to construct TRPV3 channel chimeras and point mutations for exploring pharmacological mechanism. Mouse models were used for in vivo anti-pruritus assay. KEY RESULTS An acridone alkaloid (citrusinine-II) was purified and characterized from Atalantia monophylla. It directly interacts with Y564 within S4 helix of TRPV3 to selectively inhibit the channel with a half maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50 ) of 12.43 μM. Citrusinine-II showed potential efficacy to attenuate both chronic and acute itch. Intradermal administration of citrusinine-II (143 ng/skin site) nearly completely inhibited itch behaviours. It also shows significant analgesic effects. Little side effects of the compound are observed. CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS By acting as a selective and potent inhibitor of TRPV3 channel, citrusinine-II shows valuable therapeutic effects in pruritus animal models and is a promising candidate drug and/or lead molecule for the development of anti-pruritus drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yalan Han
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Anna Luo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Peter Muiruri Kamau
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,Sino-African Joint Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China
| | | | - Jingmei Hu
- College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Chantana Boonyarat
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Lei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China
| | - Ren Lai
- Key Laboratory of Animal Models and Human Disease Mechanisms of Chinese Academy of Sciences/Key Laboratory of Bioactive Peptides of Yunnan Province, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China.,Sino-African Joint Research Center, Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Kunming, China.,KIZ-CUHK Joint Laboratory of Bioresources and Molecular Research in Common Diseases, National Resource Center for Non-Human Primates, Kunming Primate Research Center and National Research Facility for Phenotypic & Genetic Analysis of Model Animals (Primate Facility), Institute of Zoology, Kunming, China
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50
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Schutte SC, Kadakia F, Davidson S. Skin-Nerve Co-Culture Systems for Disease Modeling and Drug Discovery. Tissue Eng Part C Methods 2021; 27:89-99. [PMID: 33349133 DOI: 10.1089/ten.tec.2020.0296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Prominent clinical problems related to the skin-nerve interface include barrier dysfunction and erythema, but it is the symptoms of pain and itch that most often lead patients to seek medical treatment. Tissue-engineered innervated skin models provide an excellent solution for studying the mechanisms underlying neurocutaneous disorders for drug screening, and cutaneous device development. Innervated skin substitutes provide solutions beyond traditional monolayer cultures and have advantages that make them preferable to in vivo animal studies for certain applications, such as measuring somatosensory transduction. The tissue-engineered innervated skin models replicate the complex stratified epidermis that provides barrier function in native skin, a feature that is lacking in monolayer co-cultures, while allowing for a level of detail in measurement of nerve morphology and function that cannot be achieved in animal models. In this review, the advantages and disadvantages of different cell sources and scaffold materials will be discussed and a presentation of the current state of the field is reviewed. Impact statement A review of the current state of innervated skin substitutes and the considerations that need to be addressed when developing these models. Tissue-engineered skin substitutes are customizable and provide barrier function allowing for screening of topical drugs and for studying nerve function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey C Schutte
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Feni Kadakia
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Research Center, and Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
| | - Steve Davidson
- Department of Anesthesiology, Pain Research Center, and Neuroscience Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio, USA
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