Previous research has led to the classification of airway neurons in mice, based on the ion channels on the cell surfaces (responsible for generating and propagating signals in excitable cells such as neurons).
In the new study, the researchers used this information to search for the specific neurons involved in triggering a sneeze and/or cough, a process that involves exposing the ion channels to different compounds to see how they interact.
The research team found a compound called BAM 8-22 that makes mice sneeze. Previous research had shown that the compound activates the ion channel MrgprC11, leading the team to suspect that neurons carrying MrgprC11 channels were causing the sneeze.
To confirm this, they removed these neurons from the airways of test mice, then infected them with the influenza virus.
The researchers found that the mice got sick but didn’t sneeze, a strong sign that they had found the right neurons involved.
The team took much the same approach to identify the neurons responsible for triggering cough in mice. They found several in the trachea that expressed a chemical known to be a signaling messenger. Then, removing them “removed the cough stimulus.”
The researchers plan to find out whether similar types of neurons work in humans as well.
They noted that learning more about these triggers could help develop more effective treatments for the symptoms.
The study was published in the journal Cell.
Source: Medical Express
#Researchers #successfully #isolate #neurons #responsible #triggering #sneezing #coughing
2024-09-10 11:51:56
Sneezing reflex pathway
Table of Contents
Unraveling the Mysteries of Sneezing and Coughing: Divergent Sensory Pathways
Sneezing and coughing are two of the most common reflexes in the human body, yet the neural mechanisms behind them have long been shrouded in mystery. Recent studies have shed light on the specific neurons involved in triggering these responses, providing insight into the complex processes that govern our respiratory system.
The Role of Ion Channels
Previous research has led to the classification of airway neurons in mice, based on the ion channels on the cell surfaces responsible for generating and propagating signals in excitable cells such as neurons [[1]]. These ion channels play a crucial role in regulating the electrical activity of neurons, and their specific types have been linked to distinct physiological responses.
The Sneezing Neurons
In a groundbreaking study, researchers discovered a compound called BAM 8-22 that induces sneezing in mice [[1]]. Further investigation revealed that this compound activates the ion channel MrgprC11, leading the team to suspect that neurons carrying MrgprC11 channels were responsible for triggering sneezing responses [[2]].
To confirm this, the researchers removed these neurons from the airways of test mice and then infected them with the influenza virus. The mice became ill but did not sneeze, providing strong evidence that the scientists had identified the correct neurons involved in sneezing [[1]].
The Functional Ortholog of MrgprC11
Interestingly, a study published in ScienceDirect found that primate MrgprX1 is sensitive to MrgprC11 agonists and is the functional ortholog of mouse MrgprC11 [[1]]. This suggests that the neural mechanisms governing sneezing responses are conserved across species, providing a potential avenue for the development of therapeutic interventions.
Coughing: A Different Story
While sneezing is triggered by MrgprC11+ neurons, coughing is mediated by distinct neural pathways. Research has shown that cough neurons induce a hack in response to different stimuli, highlighting the divergent sensory pathways involved in these two reflexes [[2]].
Implications and Future Directions
These findings have significant implications for our understanding of respiratory physiology and may lead to the development of novel treatments for respiratory disorders. Further research is needed to elucidate the intricate neural mechanisms governing sneezing and coughing, as well as their potential interactions in health and disease.
the discovery of specific neurons involved in sneezing and coughing responses marks a significant milestone in the quest to unravel the mysteries of our respiratory system. As we continue to explore the complexities of these reflexes, we may uncover new avenues for the treatment and prevention of respiratory disorders.
References:
Sneezing reflex PDF
Unraveling the Mysteries of Sneezing and Coughing: Divergent Sensory Pathways
Sneezing and coughing are two of the most common reflexes in the human body, yet the neural mechanisms behind them have long been shrouded in mystery. Recent studies have shed light on the specific neurons involved in triggering these responses, providing insight into the complex processes that govern our respiratory system.
The Role of Ion Channels
Previous research has led to the classification of airway neurons in mice, based on the ion channels on the cell surfaces responsible for generating and propagating signals in excitable cells such as neurons [[1]]. These ion channels play a crucial role in regulating the electrical activity of neurons, and their specific types have been linked to distinct physiological responses.
The Sneezing Neurons
In a groundbreaking study, researchers discovered a compound called BAM 8-22 that induces sneezing in mice [[1]]. Further investigation revealed that this compound activates the ion channel MrgprC11, leading the team to suspect that neurons carrying MrgprC11 channels were responsible for triggering sneezing responses [[2]]. To confirm this, the researchers removed these neurons from the airways of test mice and then infected them with the influenza virus. The mice became ill but did not sneeze, providing strong evidence
