Sensory afferent processing in multi-responsive DRG neurons

This chapter discusses sensory afferent processing in multi-responsive DRG neurons. DRG neurons synthesize various kinds of peptides that are released and exert a variety of functions both at central and peripheral terminals. Recent advancement in molecular biology revealed the versatile nature of neurons, which are capable of producing a variety of molecules, such as neurotransmitters, enzymes, cell adhesion molecules, cell surface receptors, transporters, and binding proteins. The recent advancement in molecular and neurobiological techniques disclosed the multi-responsive nature of DRG neurons. The survival, phenotype expression, and electrical properties of these neurons are under the control of a variety of substances through their specific receptors. In pathological conditions, such as tissue inflammation or nerve injury, DRG neurons change their responsiveness through the dynamic reconstruction of their receptor system. This reconstruction is initiated by environmental stimuli. Thus, the properties of polymodal nociceptors can be altered according to the environmental conditions. In order to understand this mechanism, it is basically important to identify various receptor messenger RNAs (mRNAs) in DRG neurons, precise localization of receptor proteins, site of synthesis and route of supply of ligands for these receptors. © 1996 Elsevier Science B.V.