Interactions between keratinocytes and somatosensory neurons in itch.

ABSTRACT

Keratinocytes are epithelial cells that make up the stratified epidermis of the skin. Recent studies suggest that keratinocytes promote chronic itch. Changes in skin morphology that accompany a variety of chronic itch disorders and the multitude of inflammatory mediators secreted by keratinocytes that target both sensory neurons and immune cells highlight the importance of investigating the connection between keratinocytes and chronic itch. This chapter addresses some of the most recent data and models for the role keratinocytes play in the development and maintenance of chronic itch.