Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026
06:06
In Vivo Calcium Imaging of Dorsal Root Ganglia Neurons' Response to Somatic and Visceral Stimuli
Published on: March 1, 2024
Imaging visceral pain.
1University of Birmingham, School of Psychology, Edgbaston B15 2TT, UK. s.w.derbyshire@bham.ac.uk
Current Pain and Headache Reports
|May 17, 2007
Summary
Functional brain imaging reveals distinct activation patterns for visceral versus somatic sensations, offering insights into the brain-gut axis. This difference highlights how the brain processes unpleasant visceral stimuli, crucial for understanding conditions like irritable bowel syndrome.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Gastroenterology
- Psychology
Background:
- Functional imaging studies visceral sensation to understand the brain-gut axis.
- The perigenual cingulate cortex activates during visceral sensation but rarely during somatic pain.
- Visceral stimuli are perceived as more unpleasant than somatic stimuli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate brain activation patterns associated with visceral sensation.
- To compare brain responses to visceral versus somatic stimuli.
- To explore the utility of functional imaging in understanding chronic visceral pain.
Main Methods:
- Functional neuroimaging techniques were employed.
- Brain activation was analyzed in response to visceral and somatic stimuli.
- Comparisons were made between visceral and somatic pain processing in control subjects.
Main Results:
- Normal subjects showed activation in the perigenual cingulate cortex during visceral sensation.
- Somatic pain stimuli rarely activated this region.
- Observed differences in brain activation correlate with the perceived unpleasantness of stimuli.
Conclusions:
- Distinct neural pathways process visceral and somatic sensations.
- Functional imaging can differentiate sensory processing, offering insights into the brain-gut axis.
- Further research needs clear theoretical and clinical endpoints for studying chronic visceral pain.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Ultrasonography
Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the body's internal structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it widely used in various medical fields. Ultrasonography is used to study heart function, blood flow in the neck or extremities, certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, and fetal growth and development.
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called a...
01:19Imaging Studies VII: Vascular Imaging
DefinitionRenal angiography, also known as renal arteriography, is an imaging technique used to obtain a comprehensive view of blood flow and the vascular structure of blood vessels in the kidneys and surrounding areas.PurposeRenal angiography detects blood vessel abnormalities in the kidneys, such as aneurysms, stenosis, thrombosis, vascular tumors, and renal artery stenosis. It evaluates kidney function and guides interventional treatments like angioplasty or stent placement.Pre-Procedure...
01:28Imaging Studies I: Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder Studies
Kidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) StudiesKidney, Ureter, and Bladder (KUB) studies are standard diagnostic imaging procedures used to assess the anatomy of the urinary system. They are commonly utilized for patients experiencing abdominal pain or urinary symptoms. By using a simple X-ray of the abdomen, KUB studies can reveal structural and pathological abnormalities within the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. These studies are particularly valuable in diagnosing kidney stones, urinary...
01:24Imaging Studies II: Ultrasonography
IntroductionUltrasonography, or renal ultrasound, is a noninvasive medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and surrounding tissues.Indications for Urinary System UltrasonographyUrinary system ultrasonography is indicated in various clinical scenarios, such as:Kidney Stones (Urolithiasis): To detect and monitor the size and presence of kidney or urinary tract stones.Hydronephrosis: To assess the dilation of the renal pelvis and...
01:22Imaging Studies V: Intravenous Urography and Retrograde Pyelography
IntroductionIntravenous Urography (IVU) and Retrograde Pyelography (RP) are important diagnostic imaging techniques used to evaluate the urinary system. These methods help identify structural abnormalities, obstructions, and functional issues in the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. Both procedures use iodine-based contrast media to enhance the visibility of urinary tract structures on X-ray images, though they differ in their methods and indications.1. Intravenous Urography (IVU)Intravenous...
01:23Assessment of the Abdomen III: Palpation
Palpation is a crucial tactile examination method for assessing abdominal organs and detecting conditions like tenderness, distention, masses, or fluid. It involves both light and deep palpation techniques, each serving specific diagnostic purposes. Light palpation helps identify tenderness and other surface-level indicators, while deep palpation locates and assess abdominal masses and organ boundaries. A skilled professional can gather valuable insights through palpation, including evaluating...