Introduction to Pruritus: definition, evolution, clinical relevance and neural circuits

This advanced course provides an in-depth exploration of the biology and neuroscience of pruritus. Aimed at master’s and doctoral students in biomedical, neuroscience, or clinical disciplines, the course bridges fundamental concepts with translational perspectives. Students will examine the evolutionary origins and adaptive functions of itch, dissect the molecular and neural mechanisms underlying itch sensation, and analyze how these processes are altered in pathological conditions. Emphasis will be placed on the clinical impact of chronic pruritus, its comorbidities, and emerging therapeutic strategies. Through this lecture participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of how pruritus exemplifies the complex interplay between sensory physiology, neurobiology, and disease.

Upon completion of the course, the master/doctoral student should be able to:
   - Understand central concepts of somatosensation
   - Identify the main neural subtypes involved in itch sensation
   - Learn the main pathologies related to itch

If you have any comments or questions please contact Dr. Augusto Escalante at aescalante@umh.es