TITLE:
Cutaneous Neuro-Immune Interactions in Chronic Itch and the Role of TRP Channels in Emerging Therapies
AUTHORS:
Rachel Santana Felipes, Allison Meihofer, Arpita Patel, Natalie Asemi, Jonique Depina, Sanjana Kalidindi, Erin Rachel Pomerantz, Kelly Frasier
KEYWORDS:
Chronic Pruritus, Transient Receptor Potential Channels, TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPV4, Atopic Dermatitis, Cytokine-Mediated Itch, Psoriasis, Targeted Therapies, Biologics
JOURNAL NAME:
Modern Research in Inflammation,
Vol.15 No.1,
April
10,
2026
ABSTRACT: The interplay between the cutaneous nervous and immune systems plays a notable role in the pathogenesis of chronic itch, a debilitating symptom associated with conditions such as atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, and prurigo nodularis. Recent advances in neuro-immune biology have discovered the importance of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, particularly TRPV1, TRPA1, and TRPV4, as critical mediators in the transmission and modulation of pruritic signals. These ion channels, expressed on sensory neurons and keratinocytes, serve as molecular conduits linking environmental, immunological, and neuronal stimuli to itch perception. Dysregulated TRP channel activity has been implicated in the amplification of chronic itch through mechanisms such as mast cell degranulation, the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and sensory nerve hypersensitization. Emerging therapies targeting these channels offer a novel approach to interrupting this pathological crosstalk. TRPV1 and TRPA1 antagonists have demonstrated efficacy in preclinical and early clinical studies by attenuating neuronal excitation and inflammatory cascades, while TRPV4 modulators hold promise in mitigating itch associated with mechanical and thermal stimuli. Additionally, the downstream signaling pathways of TRP channels, including the release of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and substance P, present further therapeutic targets for modulating neurogenic inflammation and sensory input. Beyond pharmacologic interventions, insights into neuro-immune interactions have guided the development of biologics that dampen cytokine-driven pruritus, including IL-31 and IL-4/IL-13 inhibitors. The exploration of cutaneous neuro-immune interactions and TRP channel biology has unveiled transformative opportunities for understanding and treating chronic itch, highlighting a promising avenue for addressing the unmet needs of patients suffering from this distressing condition.