Spinal circuits underlying pathological pain

Nerve injury and tissue inflammation often cause exaggerated pain, which results from abnormal activity in nerve circuits in the spinal cord. These circuits include a class of nerve cells, known as excitatory interneurons, which activate other cells. Recent studies have identified several distinct excitatory interneuron populations, and our aim is to determine the roles of these different populations in normal and pathological pain. 

We will use a multidisciplinary approach involving genetically-modified mice in which different interneuron populations can be specifically targeted. Anatomical and physiological techniques will be used to define the nerve circuits that involve these cells. We will also test the effect of activating or silencing different populations, both at the cellular level, and on the behavioural responses in models of nerve injury and inflammatory pain. 

These studies will define the neurons and circuits that underlie different forms of pain, which is essential for the development of new treatments.