Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 3, 2026
09:37
Measurement of Neurophysiological Signals of Ignoring and Attending Processes in Attention Control
Published on: July 5, 2015
9.6K
[Neurophysiology of atopic pruritus]
Summary
Pruritus, or itch, is a major symptom in inflammatory skin diseases like atopic dermatitis. This review explores the complex neurophysiological interactions and mediators involved in regulating itch.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Dermatology
- Immunology
Background:
- Pruritus is a significant symptom in inflammatory skin diseases, impacting patient quality of life.
- While linked to pain, pruritus is a distinct neurophysiological sensation.
- The pathophysiology of chronic and acute pruritus remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the neurophysiological interactions regulating pruritus.
- To summarize the roles of neurological and inflammatory mediators in atopic pruritus.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on neurophysiological mechanisms.
- Analysis of identified neuromediators and their receptors.
- Examination of immune cell involvement in pruritus signaling.
Main Results:
- Numerous neuromediators beyond histamine, including neurotrophins and neuropeptides, are implicated in itch.
- In atopic dermatitis, mediators activate immune cells (mast cells, eosinophils).
- Activated immune cells release further mediators, exciting peripheral neurons.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the interplay between neurological and inflammatory pathways is crucial for managing atopic pruritus.
- Further research into these complex interactions may reveal novel therapeutic targets.
Related Concept Videos
01:44Nociception
Nociception—the ability to feel pain—is essential for an organism’s survival and overall well-being. Noxious stimuli such as piercing pain from a sharp object, heat from an open flame, or contact with corrosive chemicals are first detected by sensory receptors, called nociceptors, located on nerve endings. Nociceptors express ion channels that convert noxious stimuli into electrical signals. When these signals reach the brain via sensory neurons, they are perceived as pain. Thus, pain helps the...
01:16Sensory Functions of the Skin
The skin is the largest organ of the human body and plays a crucial role in our sensory perception. It contains a vast network of sensory receptors that contribute to the skin's protective function by perceiving physical, biological, and environmental cues and generating relevant responses.
There are two main categories of receptors on the skin: capsulated and non-capsulated. The non-capsulated ones are mainly the pain receptors. The capsulated ones can be further categorized based on the...
There are two main categories of receptors on the skin: capsulated and non-capsulated. The non-capsulated ones are mainly the pain receptors. The capsulated ones can be further categorized based on the...
01:11Papillary Dermis
Dermis
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...
The dermis might be considered the "core" of the integumentary system, as distinct from the epidermis and hypodermis. It contains blood and lymph vessels, nerves, and other structures, such as hair follicles and sweat glands. The dermis is made of two layers of connective tissue that comprise an interconnected mesh of elastin and collagenous fibers, produced by fibroblasts.
Papillary Layer
The papillary layer is made of loose, areolar connective tissue, which means the collagen and...
01:16Accessory Structures of the Skin: Hair and Hair Follicles
Hair and hair follicles are integral components of the integumentary system. Hair is a filamentous structure composed mainly of a protein called keratin. It is found on the surface of the skin throughout the body, except for areas such as the palms of the hands and soles of the feet.
Hair is a keratinous filament growing out of the epidermis. It is primarily made of dead, keratinized cells. Hair strands originate at the epidermal penetration called the hair follicle. The hair shaft is the part...
Hair is a keratinous filament growing out of the epidermis. It is primarily made of dead, keratinized cells. Hair strands originate at the epidermal penetration called the hair follicle. The hair shaft is the part...