Researchers have discovered a dedicated neural pathway that transmits the itchy feeling triggered by light touch.
Blocking the NPR1 receptor on the spinal cords of mice and humans may help reduce chronic itching.
Periostin can directly activate neurons associated with itching. Blocking periostin receptors reduced itch response in mouse models of chronic allergic itching.
Researchers shed light on the mechanism that drives the uncontrollable urge to scratch an itch.
People suffering from chronic itching as a result of a condition called chronic idiopathic pruritus found some symptom relief after taking a drug designed to treat rheumatoid arthritis, researchers report.
Researchers have identified a new compound that appears to treat chronic intractable itch without the adverse side effects normally associated with medicating the condition.
Stroking the skin can be as effective at relieving an itch as scratching, a new study reports. Rubbing an itch activates touch receptors and recruits anti-itch neurons in the spinal cord.
Researchers identified a set of neurons in the spinal cord that transmits a light-touch signal from the skin to the brain. NPY-Y1 signaling regulates the transmission of innocuous tactile information by establishing thresholds for touch discrimination and mechanical itch reflexes. The findings shed new light on the neurobiological basis of chronic itching.
Researchers have identified significant differences in the mechanisms of chronic itch between hairy and non-hairy areas of the skin.
A new case study reveals medical marijuana may provide rapid relief for sufferers of chronic itch. Researchers say THC attaches itself to brain receptors that influence the nervous system. This reduces inflammation and nervous system activity, leading to a reduction in itch sensation.
Cysteine leukotriene receptor 2 appears to be a key player in chronic itch, a new study reports.
Researchers have developed a light sensitive chemical that binds to specialized nerve cells. When illuminated by near infrared light, the chemical helps stop an itch, allowing for skin healing.
