Why Do We Itch?
Mar 17, 2025•44 min•Ep. 783
Listen to this episode in Metacast mobile app
Don't just listen to podcasts. Learn from them with transcripts, summaries, and chapters for every episode. Skim, search, and bookmark insights. Learn more
Episode description
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have uncovered new insights into the dual nature of scratching an itch, indicating that while it can worsen skin inflammation, it can also boost immune defenses against bacterial infections at the injury site. How did they do it? By torturing mice, of course. Jeff and Anthony dig into the science of itchiness to learn more. https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-025-00256-3
Support the show and get bonus episodes, videos, Discord community access and more! http://patreon.com/wehaveconcerns
Jeff on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/jeffcannata.bsky.social
Anthony on Blue Sky: https://bsky.app/profile/acarboni.bsky.social
If you’ve seen a story you think belongs on the show, share it on our Discord
For the best experience, listen in Metacast app for iOS or Android
Open in Metacast