A DRG genetic toolkit reveals molecular, morphological, and functional diversity of somatosensory neuron subtypes.

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 th

SUBMITTER: Qi L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10153270 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature