Chapter 16. The functional morphology of thin sensory axons: some principles and problems

摘要: Publisher Summary The extraordinary phenotypic specialization of most neuronal populations contrasts with the heterogeneity and diversity small sensory ganglion cells emitting thin, principally unmyelinated, axons. Electrophysiological analysis sense organs (receptors) associated these axons has emphasized properties sensitization polymodality—features lacking in other organs. Morphological analyses have revealed that although almost half belong to neurons C fibers, their distribution density various non-integumentary regions body is, at best, rarely related activity. variety axon terminal fine structure, classes molecular markers for unmyelinated distinctive relations patterns, chemical stimuli now known generate or sensitize afferent impulse activity, suggest need a new taxonomy fibers. morphological features contemporary painful neuropathy models relation cytokines, neurotrophins, mediators fiber excitability changes provide key insights into nature pain pathology peripheral origin.