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bioRxiv · 10.1101/2020.05.18.098871

Visualizing the itch-sensing skin arbors

Xing, Y.·Steele, H. R.·Hilley, H. B.·Niehoff, T.·Lawson, K.·Han, L.
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Abstract

Diverse sensory neurons exhibit distinct neuronal morphologies with a variety of axon terminal arborizations used to subserve their functions. Due to its clinical significance, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of itch are being intensely studied. However, a complete analysis of itch-sensing terminal arborization morphology is missing. Using a novel MrgprC11CreERT2 transgenic mouse line, we labeled a small subset of itch-sensing neurons that express multiple itch-related molecules including MrgprA3, MrgprC11, histamine receptor H1, IL-31 receptor, 5-HT receptor 1F, natriuretic precursor peptide B, and neuromedin B. By combining sparse genetic labeling and whole-mount PLAP histochemistry, we found that itch-sensing skin arbors exhibit free endings with extensive axonal branching in the superficial epidermis and large receptive fields. These results revealed the unique morphological characteristics of itch-sensing neurons and provide novel insights into the basic mechanisms of itch transmission.

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Xing, Y., Steele, H. R., Hilley, H. B., Niehoff, T., Lawson, K., Han, L.. 2020-05-20. Visualizing the itch-sensing skin arbors. https://doi.org/10.1101/2020.05.18.098871

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