-Containing Nociceptors Are Required for Noxious Heat Sensation.

DRG neurons are classified into distinct types to mediate the somatosensation with different modalities. Recently, transcriptional profilings of DRG neurons by single-cell RNA-sequencing have provided new insights into the neuron typing and functional properties. Zinc-finger CCHC domain-containing 12 () was reported to be the representative marker for a subtype of galanin-positive () DRG neurons. However, the characteristics and functions of neurons are largely unknown. Here, we genetically labeled neurons in -CreERT2::Ai9 mice, and verified that represented a new subpopulation of DRG neurons in both sexes. neurons centrally innervated the superficial laminae in spinal dorsal horn, and peripherally terminated as free nerve endings in the epidermis and cluster-shaped fibers in the dermis of footpads and nearby. In addition, neurons also formed circumferential endings surrounding the hair follicles in hairy skin. Functionally, calcium imaging in DRGs revealed that neurons were polymodal nociceptors and could be activated by mechanical and noxious thermal stimuli. Behavioral tests showed that selective ablation of DRG neurons reduced the sensitivity to noxious heat in mice. Together, we identified a new subpopulation of nociceptors essential for noxious heat sensation. represents a new subpopulation of DRG neurons. The characteristics and functions of neurons are largely unknown. Here we genetically labeled neurons, and showed that the fibers of DRG neurons projected to superficial lamina at spinal dorsal horn, and innervated skin as free nerve endings in the epidermis and cluster-shaped fibers in the dermis of footpads and nearby. Functionally, DRG neurons responded to noxious mechanical and heat stimuli. Ablation of DRG neurons impaired the sensation of noxious heat in mice. Therefore, we identify a new subpopulation of DRG neurons required for noxious heat sensation.