Fred Schwaller

This study identifies Meis2 as a critical transcription factor for the proper development and function of touch receptor end-organs in LTMRs, showing its role in innervation and sensory responses.

The paper shows that mutations at R2756 in PIEZO2 channels reduce voltage-block, increasing mechanosensitivity in nociceptors and causing hypersensitivity to mechanical pain.

This study shows that USH2A is essential for vibration sensing in mice and humans by being expressed in Meissner corpuscle end-organs, not in sensory neurons.

The paper shows mice can discriminate warm temperatures without dedicated thermoreceptors, using polymodal C-fibers and central circuits that integrate inputs from multiple afferents.