The plasticity of neuropeptide Y-Y1 receptor system on Tac2 neurons contributes to mechanical hyperknesis during chronic itch.

ABSTRACT: Rationale: In the physiological states, the act of scratching protects the person from harmful substances, while in certain pathological conditions, the patient suffers from chronic itch, both physically and mentally. Chronic itch sufferers are more sensitive to mechanical stimuli, and mechanical hyperknesis relief is essential for chronic itch treatment. While neuropeptide Y-Y1 receptor (NPY-Y1R) system is known to play a crucial role in modulating mechanical itch in physiological conditions, it is elusive how they are altered during chronic itch. We hypothesize that the negative regulatory effect of Y1Rs on Tac2 neurons, the key neurons that transmit mechanical itch, declines during chronic itch. Methods: We combined transgenic mice, chemogenetic manipulation, immuno

SUBMITTER: Dai D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10750199 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature