LAUSR

Significance We achieve tracing of neural networks derived from Gal-containing or Nts-expressing dorsal root ganglia neurons by microinjection of recombinant herpes simplex virus into the lumbar 5 dorsal root ganglia. Immunosuppression effectively facilitated the infection ratio of the viral tracer. By comparing neural networks, we identify differentially labeled nuclei, reveal distinct organization of ascending pathways, and demonstrate different involvement of the somatic motor system and the emotional motor systems in two neural networks. Functional validation of the representative, differentially labeled nuclei suggested the relevance of the neural networks with pain and itch, respectively. This study provides insight into the modality selectivity of supraspinal neural networks for processing pain and itch.