Yinna Ma

Itch is the sensation when skin or nerve cells are irritated, while pain is a “warning” sent from the nervous system that something is wrong — the latter results in a psychological or physiological response. In the past, there has been a limited understanding regarding the underlying mechanisms that affect pain and itch, and how aspects of pain and itch impact mental health. The Hu Laboratory at Mount Sinai’s Icahn School of Medicine focuses on using mouse models to understand the initiation of sensory experiences like pain and itch. Their main goal is to understand the molecular, cellular, and circuit mechanisms that affect itch and pain sensations. Specifically, they investigate the spinal cord and brain’s connection with itch and pain signaling, how animals display distinct coping behaviors, and how sensory experiences affect the body. After genetically modifying the mouse models, the lab uses molecular studies, In vitro cellular assays, In vivo assays, and Ex vivo assays. These methods study changes in a mouse’s behaviors, a cell or circuit’s function, a nerve’s activity, and how molecules work together within cells. In the past, they have found a link between Merkel cells and itch, as well as with dysregulated interoception and psychiatric disorders. Currently, the Hu Lab has used these findings to further their research regarding the role Merkel cells play in itch, the Central Nervous System’s role with interoceptive signals, and the impact an inability to cope plays on the body. With their work, the Hu Lab can advance our understanding of how sensory experiences work and even their impact on psychiatric disorders. As a result, their research can aid the development of treatments for chronic itch, mental health, and psychiatric disorders.