Study identifies a specific protein in sensory neurons that detects mechanical itch stimuli such as an insect crawling on the skin or when one touches an object that irritates the skin.
People with chronic itching conditions such as eczema and psoriasis are at increased risk of stress, depression, and suicidal thoughts than those without such skin conditions.
Mice bred to be germ-free, and those treated with antibiotics showed a significant reduction in the ability to learn that a threatening danger was no longer present. Sequencing the RNA of microglia in the brains of the animals reveals altered gene expression in the immune cells, which play a role in remodeling how neurons connect during the learning process. Restoring the gut microbiota reverse the learning problems.
A new study confirms a link between a number of autoimmune diseases and an increased risk of developing psychosis.
Inhibition of the P2X4 protein receptor in sensory neurons decreases sensitivity to touch, a new study reports. The findings could have implications for the development of new topical treatments for psoriasis and dermatitis.
Combining a tetanus vaccine with a virus particle may prove effective as a protection against Alzheimer's. The vaccine could also be used to treat allergies and psoriasis, researchers report.
Following a massive analysis of DNA samples from military personnel, researchers have identified two statistically significant genetic variants that could be associated with an increased risk for developing PTSD.
