Forwarding development of novel somatosensory testing equipment in humans

The SOMATOSENSE project aims to provide accurate, automated, and innovative tools to probe the human somatosensory afferent system and diagnose problems.

Somatosensory information from the skin provides us with a continuous stream of information, to allow us to interact efficiently with the world and to ground us in our bodies.

In somatosensory disorders, there can be issues with one or more types of sensory afferent that can cause debilitating effects, including pain.

Currently, somatosensory clinical tests are often applied manually, can be painful, and may not be specific enough to make rapid diagnoses.

This is a major and prevalent issue, where there are hundreds of millions of people across the world who suffer with somatosensory disorders, such as diabetic neuropathy, which can have complex origins.

SOMATOSENSE aims to create efficient, non-painful tests of somatosensation that would be highly beneficial to the clinic and for fundamental research.

This investigation is grounded in our in-depth knowledge and skills in somatosensory research and technology development.

In two work packages (WPs), we will explore novel tests of somatosensory function, focusing on touch and including temperature mechanisms.

In WP1, we will make four small, new devices that are easy-to-use, yet will accurately test different aspects of touch (e.g. the perception of brief touch, moving touch, airflow, and wetness).

These will provide complex insights into somatosensory function and integration, which cannot easily be tested with existing technology.

In WP2, we will develop a clinical microneurography system, where multiple direct axonal recordings can be gained from human peripheral nerves to provide exquisite insights into neuronal function in patients.

These new devices will lead the way to individualized, efficient diagnoses of somatosensory disorders, thus addressing widespread social and economic issues.