Understanding how scratching affects itch sensations in the brain
Official title: Determine Functions of the Lateral Habenular and Trigeminal High Threshold Mechanoreceptors in Mediating Scratching-induced Responses
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11141148 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how scratching helps reduce the feeling of itch by exploring how the brain processes signals from the skin, and it's aimed at helping people who deal with chronic itching.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | June 20, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $513,110 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131209-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141148 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals suffering from chronic itch conditions, such as eczema or psoriasis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not experience chronic itch or have other unrelated skin conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which scratching influences the sensation of itch, particularly focusing on the lateral habenula in the brain. It aims to understand how signals from the skin during scratching are processed and how they can suppress the itch sensation. The study uses animal models to explore the activation of specific neurons in response to both chemical and mechanical stimuli related to itching and scratching. By examining these processes, the research seeks to uncover new insights into chronic itch conditions and their management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for chronic itch, improving the quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding itch mechanisms, but this specific approach focusing on the lateral habenula is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luo, Wenqin — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Luo, Wenqin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.