Daniel J. Headrick

A molecular and spinal circuit basis for the functional segregation of itch and pain

The paper identifies functionally distinct subtypes within Grpr+ neurons in the dorsal horn that mediate itch and mechanical allodynia, demonstrating the utility of genomic enhancer-based strategies for modality-specific targeting.

Transiently-elevated dopamine triggers plasticity that preserves motor function, striatal neuron morphology, and thalamostriatal input in a mouse model of Parkinson's disease

The paper shows that temporarily increasing dopamine in a Parkinson's mouse model preserves motor function, neuron structure, and specific neural inputs.