Scientists discover 16 types of nerve cells linked to human touch sensation

Scientists have identified 16 distinct types of nerve cells involved in the human sense of touch, revealing complexities beyond the traditional view that each sensation has a specific nerve cell type. This study, published in *Nature Neuroscience*, involved researchers from Sweden and the USA. The research utilized deep RNA sequencing to analyze gene expression in nerve cells, linking their genetic profiles to their functions. Notably, some nerve cells that respond to pleasant touch also reacted to heat and pain stimuli, suggesting a more integrated sensory pathway than previously understood. Comparisons with mice and macaques showed similarities in nerve cell types, but humans have more rapidly conducting pain-sensing nerve cells. This difference may relate to body size and the need for quicker pain signaling in humans.