Researchers in Sweden have uncovered an intricate network of cells under the skin that are sensitive to pain and form such an extensive ‘mesh- like’ network with nerve cells that it can be labeled as an organ.

This find can pave the way for a greater understanding of the reasons we feel pain and how it can be relieved.

Schwann Cells

Normally, the painful sensation on the skin is thought to be perceived by the very sensitive endings of certain nerve cells. Nerve cells are kept alive by and connected to other cells called Schwann cells that wrap around them and form an extensive ‘mesh-like network’. They were found to interact differently with nerve cells elsewhere. Further experiments on mice proved that the Schwann cells play a direct, added role in pain perception.

Senior study author Patrik Ernfors, a pain researcher at Sweden’s Karolinska Institute claimed that their study showed that sensitivity to pain did not occur only in the skin’s nerve [fibers], but also in the recently discovered pain-sensitive organ.

More Experiments

Researchers are of the opinion that a lot more tests and experiments have to be conducted to know the exact functioning of the cells. So far all the experiments have been conducted on mice and are yet to be tested in humans. Until now, all previously known sensory organs found in mouse also exist in humans, so it is likely that this organ exists in humans too.

Scientists now plan to study in-depth on how these cells are actually activated by pain so as to come up with solutions to treat chronic pain.