Analyzing at the Role of Mrgpra3 neurons through Mrdgprd3+ neurons in the pathogenesis of Painful Diabetic Neuropathy
Advisor(s)
Dr. Richard J. Miller , Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine
Nirupa D. Jayaraj, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine
Location
Room A151
Start Date
26-4-2019 10:25 AM
End Date
26-4-2019 10:40 AM
Abstract
Affecting nearly 25% of diabetes patients, Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) is a complication of diabetes that occurs due to the hyperexcitability of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) receptors. Much like hyperalgesia, PDN is accompanied with high, excruciating levels of neuropathic pain and the development of small-fiber degeneration. Previous studies have linked DRG neurons expressing the Nav1.8 sodium channel with the feeling of pain. However, many subsets of neurons exist within the DRG that express the Nav1.8 sodium channel. Currently, it is not known what specific type(s) of neurons are directly involved with the sensation of pain. This study targets one group of neurons, the Mrgprd3+ neurons, which are in a similar subset as the MrgprA3 neurons. Through the use of confocal imagery and transgenic mice embedded with mCherry, a fluorescent protein that tags certain components in a cell, this study was able to determine the concentration of MrgprA3 neurons within the DRG. Although various tests are required to determine sources of pain, the results of this study will play a role in determining the role of specific neurons in the pathogenesis of PDN, potentially allowing for new treatments to be created to counter the effects of this condition.
Analyzing at the Role of Mrgpra3 neurons through Mrdgprd3+ neurons in the pathogenesis of Painful Diabetic Neuropathy
Room A151
Affecting nearly 25% of diabetes patients, Painful Diabetic Neuropathy (PDN) is a complication of diabetes that occurs due to the hyperexcitability of dorsal root ganglion (DRG) receptors. Much like hyperalgesia, PDN is accompanied with high, excruciating levels of neuropathic pain and the development of small-fiber degeneration. Previous studies have linked DRG neurons expressing the Nav1.8 sodium channel with the feeling of pain. However, many subsets of neurons exist within the DRG that express the Nav1.8 sodium channel. Currently, it is not known what specific type(s) of neurons are directly involved with the sensation of pain. This study targets one group of neurons, the Mrgprd3+ neurons, which are in a similar subset as the MrgprA3 neurons. Through the use of confocal imagery and transgenic mice embedded with mCherry, a fluorescent protein that tags certain components in a cell, this study was able to determine the concentration of MrgprA3 neurons within the DRG. Although various tests are required to determine sources of pain, the results of this study will play a role in determining the role of specific neurons in the pathogenesis of PDN, potentially allowing for new treatments to be created to counter the effects of this condition.