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MrgprB4 in trigeminal neurons expressing TRPA1 modulates unpleasant sensations

Shota Tobori1, Haruka Hiyama1, Takahito Miyake2

  • 1Department of Molecular Pharmacology, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kyoto University, 46-29 Yoshida-Shimoadachi-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan.

Journal of Pharmacological Sciences
|June 12, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Gentle touch sensations are mediated by Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor B4 (MrgprB4) and TRPA1 channels in mice. These receptors enhance pleasant feelings and modulate unpleasant sensations on the cheek.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Sensory Biology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Gentle touch elicits pleasant sensations detected by specific sensory neurons expressing Mas-related G protein-coupled receptor B4 (MrgprB4).
  • The precise role of MrgprB4 in sensory processing, particularly in relation to other sensory channels, remains incompletely understood.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the function of MrgprB4-expressing neurons in sensory perception.
  • To determine the interaction between MrgprB4 and transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in mediating touch-related sensations.

Main Methods:

  • Electrophysiological recordings from MrgprB4-positive neurons in the trigeminal and dorsal root ganglia.
  • Behavioral analysis of wild-type, Mrgprb4-knockout, and TRPA1-knockout mice in response to various sensory stimuli (e.g., acetone, sucrose).

Main Results:

  • MrgprB4-positive neurons were primarily sensitive to transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) agonists, not TRPV1, TRPM8, or TRPV4 agonists.
  • Mrgprb4-knockout mice exhibited enhanced unpleasant sensory behaviors in response to acetone and sucrose application on the cheek.
  • TRPA1-knockout mice also showed heightened unpleasant sensory responses, suggesting a cooperative role with MrgprB4.

Conclusions:

  • MrgprB4, in conjunction with TRPA1 in trigeminal neurons, contributes to pleasant sensations rather than noxious or cold sensations.
  • Pleasant sensations mediated by MrgprB4 may play a role in modulating unpleasant sensory experiences on the face.
Keywords:
Hairy skinMrgprB4Sensory behaviorTRPA1Trigeminal ganglion

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