Human Dorsal Root Ganglia Neuron Cultures from Body Donors

The project focuses on advancing research in neuroscience and pain management by developing methods to culture human sensory nerve cells (dorsal root ganglia, or DRG) from body donors. These cells are essential for studying pain and nerve damage, which are challenging to fully understand using animal models. Human DRG cells offer a more accurate insight into how our nerves function and respond to treatments. Currently, human DRG cells are difficult to access, requiring tissue from living patients, fetuses, or organ donors. This project proposes using body donors who have dedicated their bodies to science, offering a more ethical and reliable source for research. The team aims to culture these nerve cells successfully, and explore sex-based differences in nerve cell behavior, which can improve personalized medicine approaches for pain relief. A unique aspect of this research is identifying how long after death these nerve cells can still be used, ensuring that scientists can maximize the potential of donated tissues. The findings could transform how nerve damage is treated, leading to better therapies for pain management and sensory restoration.