Scientists from the University of Michigan found that the brain felt the cold temperature through a specialized sensory chain, which differs from their heated ways. The results of the study were published in Nature Communications (Natcom).
It was previously assumed that all temperature signals, from cold to heat, reached the brain with one general channel. However, a new study shows that there are separate neuron chains to recognize the cold, which allows you to understand and treat temperature perception disorders.
Scientists have followed this path to mice using pictorial technology, electrophysiological monitoring and genetic analysis. They have discovered special skin receptors, which are activated at a temperature of 15 to 25 ° C. These sensors irritate sensory neurons that transmit signals to the spinal cord where they are strengthened before sending a brain.
Meanwhile, only the discovery of cold receptors in 2021 brought the Nobel Prize, the study of the role of mediums in the cold signal was a new step in the study of sensory systems. By turning off these cells to the mice, scientists found out that the animals had stopped responding to the cold, but they were left to sensitive heat.
"This shows that the cold is transferred to its unique way, separate from other temperature stimuli," Bo Duan explained.
The group now intends to study the interaction of cold chain with other sensory systems, including pain and crazy. Discovery may have practical importance. For example, patients passing chemotherapy often suffer from cold Alodinia, even a painful reaction to light freezing. The understanding of these sensitivity mechanisms can help develop target therapies that will reduce inconvenience and side effects.
Translation of: Euromedia24.com
