Recent research indicates that the brain processes pain and itch through distinct neural circuits within the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). Scientists identified two types of neurons in the ACC: those responding to both pain and itch, and those specific to either sensation. The study revealed that these neurons receive separate inputs from the mediodorsal thalamus, suggesting dedicated pathways for each sensation. By selectively deactivating these neurons, researchers demonstrated that pain and itch perception could be independently reduced. These findings challenge previous assumptions of shared pathways and open possibilities for targeted therapies for chronic pain and itch conditions. This discovery offers new insights into the complex mechanisms by which the brain differentiates sensory experiences.

https://neurosciencenews.com/pain-itch-brain-28463/