Researchers discovered a new class of fine hairs in mice called vellus-like hairs. These hairs are like the short, soft hairs on human skin, often called peach fuzz. The team also found a group of neurons that connect to those hairs.
In mice with chronic skin inflammation, animals with the touch-sensitive neurons scratched normally. Mice without those neurons or with inactive neurons scratched much less. The researchers stroked the hairs with a small loop of thread and also used blue light to activate the neurons. The tests showed these neurons cause mechanical itch and may be a target for new treatments.
Difficult words
- hair — thin thread-like growth on skinhairs
- vellus-like — short, soft hair like peach fuzz
- neuron — cell that sends signals in the bodyneurons
- chronic — lasting a long time or repeating
- inflammation — body reaction that causes redness and pain
- mechanical — caused by physical touch or movement
- activate — cause to start working or acting
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Discussion questions
- Have you ever had an itchy spot and scratched it? What did you feel?
- Do you think finding these neurons could help new skin treatments? Why or why not?
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