Abstract
Potentially harmful stimuli are detected at the skin by nociceptor sensory neurons that drive rapid protective withdrawal behaviours. It is unclear how the somatosensory system encodes and integrates information from stimuli causing pain. Here we will use a number of advanced technologies to understand the role of the somatosensory cortex in encoding and integrating nociceptive information to coordinate appropriate protective responses to noxious stimuli. This should provide exciting new insights into how the nervous system guides behavioural responses to minimise risk of harm.
References
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