NEBS and PIEZO2: Guardians of the Respiratory Galaxy
Mar. 18, 2024- By: Raneem Harb
Courtesy ofSCIREQ - an emka TECHNOLOGIES Company
In a recent Nature publication by Schappe,M (2024), researchers have revealed a fascinating aspect of respiratory physiology: the role of sensory neurons in guarding against airway obstruction and orchestrating crucial reflexes to maintain respiratory function.
The study explores the intricate neural pathways involved in detecting and responding to airway closure. By characterizing a neuronal reflex of the vagus nerve evoked by airway closure, the researchers have identified dedicated sensory neurons that detect airway compression. They pinpointed the crucial role of neuroepithelial bodies (NEBs) and the mechanoreceptor PIEZO2 in sensing airway closure and initiating gasping responses.
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