The field of itch biology is currently undergoing a transformative translational revolution, where fundamental discoveries at the molecular and neuronal levels are rapidly translating into innovative clinical applications. Previously relegated to the side-lines of sensory research, itch has gained significant recognition as a distinct sensory modality with its own intricate pathways and mechanisms. The elucidation of pruritus-associated receptors, neural circuits, and immune interactions has paved the way for targeted therapeutic interventions, offering relief to individuals burdened by chronic itch conditions. This translational momentum holds the promise of not only alleviating disease burden with novel therapeutics, but also deepening our comprehension of broader neurobiological processes. As itch biology enters this exciting phase, collaborations between basic scientists, clinicians, and industry partners are fostering a dynamic landscape where bench-to-bedside advancements are poised to revolutionize how we understand and manage itch.
This collection aims to shine a spotlight on itch, highlighting emerging mechanisms underlying itch pathologies, clinical management of pruritic conditions, and the novel therapeutics in development. This collection welcomes original research articles, reviews, and clinical studies that contribute to the growing body of knowledge surrounding itch.
Potential topics for submission include, but are not limited to:
- Neurobiological basis of itch sensation
- Neuroimmune interactions contributing to itch
- Itch in diseases such as urticaria, atopic dermatitis, prurigo nodularis, notalgia paresthetica, and chronic pruritus of unknown origin
- Management of itch in dermatological and non-dermatological disorders
- Novel therapeutic strategies for chronic itch
Brian Kim is the Sol and Clara Kest Professor of Dermatology, Vice Chair of Research, and Site Chair of Mount Sinai West and Morningside in the Kimberly and Eric J. Waldman Department of Dermatology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He is also Director of the Mark Lebwohl Center for Neuroinflammation and Sensation that is overseen by the Kimberly and Eric J. Waldman Department of Dermatology, Precision Immunology Institute, and the Friedman Brain Institute at Mount Sinai. He has >140 peer-reviewed publications in many internationally recognized journals including New England Journal of Medicine, Cell, Immunity, and JAMA Dermatology. He has multiple NIH grants, designed pivotal clinical trials, and is an inventor of itch-centered technologies. His research has led to awards and funding from NIH, Doris Duke Charitable Foundation, American Skin Association, American Academy of Dermatology, American Society for Clinical Investigation, American Dermatological Association, and International League of Dermatological Societies.
Please contact Autumn Zellers at [email protected] with any queries regarding this Article Collection.
