Kappa opioids suppress histaminergic itch by inhibiting mediodorsal thalamus-projecting claustrum glutamatergic neurons

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Abstract
Itch, an uncomfortable sensation that induces scratching, is suppressed by activation of kappa opioid receptors (KORs). KOR agonists, such as Nalfurafine, offer potent central antipruritic effects, yet the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. In this study, we report the important role of glutamatergic neurons in the claustrum (CLA) in itch modulation. Chemogenetic inhibition of these neurons significantly reduces histamine-induced scratching behavior, whereas their activation heightens scratching behavior. These CLA Glu neurons connect to the mediodorsal thalamus (MD), forming a pathway that modulates itch sensations. Optogenetic manipulation of the CLA Glu -MD pathway demonstrates that its inhibition decreases scratching behavior, whereas activation increases it. Notably, CLA Glu neurons highly express KORs, and treatment with Nalfurafine markedly inhibits histamine-induced CLA Glu neuronal activation. Conditional knockdown of KORs in CLA Glu neurons or the CLA Glu -MD circuit diminishes Nalfurafine’s antipruritic effects. These findings provide insight into the neural circuits involved in histaminergic itch and the action of KOR agonists.
Funding Information
  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (82030112)
  • Major Project of the Science and Technology Innovation 2030 of China (2021ZD0203500)
  • Major Project of the Science and Technology Innovation 2030 of China (2021ZD0202900)
  • Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality (23ZR1474900)
  • Key R&D Program of Shandong Province (2024CXPT029)
  • Taishan Scholars Program and Shandong Laboratory Program (SYS202205)
  • Fundamental Research Projects of Science & Technology Innovation and Development Plan in Yantai City (No.2024JCYJ045)
  • National Natural Science Foundation of China (82571743)

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