Project description
Innovative diagnostic tests for somatosensory disorders
The somatosensory system is a complex network of sensory receptors and neural pathways responsible for detecting and processing tactile information from the skin. This system enables us to perceive touch, temperature, pressure, and pain, providing essential feedback about our environment. Funded by the European Research Council, the SOMATOSENSE project aims to develop innovative, non-invasive tests tools for evaluating touch and neuronal function in individuals. Current clinical tests for the diagnosis of patients with somatosensory disorders, such as diabetic neuropathy, are painful and lack specificity. The SOMATOSENSE tools are expected to revolutionise the assessment and diagnosis of somatosensory disorders affecting millions worldwide.
Objective
The SOMATOSENSE project aims to provide accurate, automated, and innovative tools to probe the human somatosensory afferent system and diagnose problems. Somatosensory information from the skin provides us with a continuous stream of information, to allow us to interact efficiently with the world and to ground us in our bodies. In somatosensory disorders, there can be issues with one or more types of sensory afferent that can cause debilitating effects, including pain. Currently, somatosensory clinical tests are often applied manually, can be painful, and may not be specific enough to make rapid diagnoses. This is a major and prevalent issue, where there are hundreds of millions of people across the world who suffer with somatosensory disorders, such as diabetic neuropathy, which can have complex origins. SOMATOSENSE aims to create efficient, non-painful tests of somatosensation that would be highly beneficial to the clinic and for fundamental research. This investigation is grounded in our in-depth knowledge and skills in somatosensory research and technology development. In two work packages (WPs), we will explore novel tests of somatosensory function, focusing on touch and including temperature mechanisms. In WP1, we will make four small, new devices that are easy-to-use, yet will accurately test different aspects of touch (e.g. the perception of brief touch, moving touch, airflow, and wetness). These will provide complex insights into somatosensory function and integration, which cannot easily be tested with existing technology. In WP2, we will develop a clinical microneurography system, where multiple direct axonal recordings can be gained from human peripheral nerves to provide exquisite insights into neuronal function in patients. These new devices will lead the way to individualized, efficient diagnoses of somatosensory disorders, thus addressing widespread social and economic issues.
Fields of science
Keywords
Programme(s)
- HORIZON.1.1 - European Research Council (ERC) Main Programme
Funding Scheme
HORIZON-ERC-POC - HORIZON ERC Proof of Concept GrantsHost institution
75794 Paris
France