Nocitseptor
Nocitseptor, commonly spelled nociceptor in scientific literature, refers to sensory neurons that detect noxious stimuli and initiate the perception of pain. They are free nerve endings of primary afferent neurons located in peripheral tissues such as the skin, mucosa, joints, and visceral organs.
Two main fiber classes convey nociceptive signals: A-delta fibers, which are thinly myelinated and transmit fast,
Activation occurs through mechanical damage, extreme temperatures, and chemical mediators such as bradykinin, prostaglandins, serotonin, lactic
Signals are carried to the dorsal root ganglion, synapse in the dorsal horn of the spinal cord
Clinical relevance: analgesic strategies often target nociceptor signaling, such as capsaicin-induced desensitization of TRPV1-expressing fibers and