16 Nerve Cell Types Identified in Human Touch - Neuroscience News

Researchers identified 16 distinct types of nerve cells involved in human touch and compared them with those in mice and macaques, showing both shared and unique traits. The study reveals unexpected complexities in how nerve cells respond to stimuli, suggesting a sensory system that integrates multiple types of sensations.

Notably, some nerve cells involved in sensing touch also respond to heat and cooling, indicating an intricate pathway for processing pleasant sensations. This work sheds light on the evolutionary differences in nerve signaling, particularly in the speed of pain response in humans.
Findings could pave the way for better understanding sensory processing and pain management. Further research may uncover even more cell types and expand our knowledge of sensory nerve pathways.
Key Facts:
Sixteen types of sensory nerve cells identified in humans, with complex response profiles.
Some touch-related nerve cells also respond to pain and temperature, challenging previous assumptions.
Rapid pain-signaling nerve cells in humans are more prevalent and faster than in mice, possibly due to body size.