Single cell RNA-sequencing reveals GINIP-expressing neurons as the main targets of focused ultrasound

Dorsal root ganglion (DRG) neurons have a wide range of functions, including touch, pain and itch. These neurons have emerged as promising targets for non-invasive focused ultrasound (FUS) neuromodulation. However, our knowledge of the molecular and physical mechanisms underlying FUS-evoked responses in DRG neurons is limited. Here, we investigate the neuromodulatory capabilities of FUS in cultured DRG neurons in combination with calcium imaging. We find that a 20-MHz FUS burst of 1-ms duration at an acoustic pressure of 5 MPa elicited calcium responses in 52% of DRG neurons. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals that the majority of FUS-sensitive neurons belong to three subsets of DRG neurons; C-LTMRs, the MRGPRD-expressing C-HTMRs and A6-LTMRs. FUS excites all these neuronal subtypes by membrane deformation, suggesting a mechanism mediated by mechanosensitive ion channels. Our results identify FUS parameters that activate distinct subsets of DRG neurons and open new avenues for using FUS stimulation to modulate DRG neuron function.