Phox2a in Lateral Spinal Nucleus Tac1-Positive Neurons Mediates Histamine-Independent Acute Itch.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

While acute itch comprises histamine-dependent and -independent subtypes, critical mechanisms underlying histamine-independent itch remain poorly understood. This study investigates the role of paired-like homeobox 2a (Phox2a) in tachykinin 1-positive (Tac1⁺) neurons of the lateral spinal nucleus (LSN) as a novel target for histamine-independent pruritus intervention.

Methods

We combined chemogenetic manipulation (viral-mediated neuronal activation/inhibition), whole-cell patch-clamp recordings, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence in situ hybridization, Western blotting, and behavioral assays to investigate the role of LSN^Tac1 neurons and Phox2a in itch modulation.

Results

LSN^Tac1 neurons were specifically activated during chloroqu

SUBMITTER: Chen YL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12594609 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature