Somatosensory system

The somatosensory system consists of the peripheral receptors and neural pathways through which the nervous system detects and processes information about touch (mechanoception), pain (nociception), temperature (thermoception) and the position and movement of parts of the body (proprioception).

Latest Research and Reviews

All Research & Reviews

News and Comment

  • Comments & Opinion |

    In the case that led the Supreme Court to overturn Roe vs Wade, the State of Mississippi made the strong claim that fetuses can feel pain. We argue that critical biological evidence used to support this claim was misinterpreted and that the State’s argument conflated pain and nociception. Abortion policy has profound moral and ethical consequences and therefore needs to be grounded in the most accurate scientific arguments, as well as a clear understanding of what we mean when we use the term pain.

    • T. V. Salomons
    •  & G. D. Iannetti
    Nature Neuroscience 25, 1396-1398

  • Research Highlights |

    A once-daily combination hormone treatment led to reductions in endometriosis-associated pain and opioid use for the duration of a 6-month study.

    • Karen O’Leary
    Nature Medicine

  • Research Highlights |

    A study in mice reveals the neuronal mechanisms behind music-induced analgesia, providing a basis for further research and development of alternative pain interventions in humans.

    • Karen O’Leary
    Nature Medicine
All News & Comment