The sensation of an itch, particularly in cases of eczema or dermatitis, can be incredibly uncomfortable and is often only relieved through scratching. However, excessive scratching can actually cause damage to the skin, leading to further inflammation and irritation. Recently, Harvard Medical School scientists discovered that bacteria can activate nerve cells in the skin, causing itchiness. This breakthrough discovery could potentially lead to new treatments for inflammatory skin conditions like eczema and dermatitis. The researchers found that Staph aureus, a common bacterium, can cause itchiness by releasing an enzyme that triggers the urge to scratch. The study also found that using an already approved anticlotting drug that blocks a protein called PAR1 stopped itching in mice. This research is among the first to show a clear mechanism between itching and bacteria, and could lead to further discoveries in the field.
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