Somatosensory C-fiber microneurography is a specialized technique for directly recording nerve activity from unmyelinated, small C-fiber afferents, historically “invisible” to standard EMG and nerve conduction studies. These afferents play a critical role in somatosensory and pain processing, contributing to a broad range of sensory modalities including temperature, itch, and proprioception, and can also influence autonomic and vasomotor functions. Studying them requires advanced technical expertise, unique equipment, and specialized interpretation.

Despite methodological progress, significant gaps remain in understanding C-fiber contributions to somatosensory disorders, neuropathic pain, small fiber neuropathies, musculoskeletal sensory processing, and peripheral sensory-autonomic regulation. Recent advancements demonstrate that C-fiber microneurography can reliably capture action potentials from small-diameter axons in humans, opening new avenues to explore their physiological and pathophysiological roles. Foundational questions remain regarding receptor and axonal properties, age-dependent changes, and accurate interpretation of action potentials in these fibers.

This Research Topic aims to inspire researchers worldwide to advance techniques, deepen physiological understanding, and bridge knowledge gaps in C-fiber microneurography across somatosensory, musculoskeletal, and autonomic systems. We welcome submissions exploring, but not limited to:

C-fiber activity in neuropathic pain and other somatosensory disorders

Axonal and action potential characteristics of C-fibers

Age-dependent changes in C-fiber function

Contributions of C-fibers to musculoskeletal sensory processing, temperature, itch, and proprioception

Methodological development, data analysis, and interpretation in C-fiber recordings

Translational insights linking C-fiber physiology to clinical outcomes, including autonomic or small-fiber-mediated symptoms

We invite original research, reviews, methodological papers, and perspectives that enhance the understanding of C-fiber physiology and its clinical relevance. Contributions that advance recording techniques, provide mechanistic insights, or inform the interpretation of C-fiber activity in health and disease are particularly encouraged.

By consolidating knowledge and fostering methodological innovation, this Topic seeks to promote investigation of small-fiber neurophysiology, accelerate discovery, and support translational applications relevant to a wide range of sensory and autonomic functions.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Unveiling C-Fiber Nerve Activity: Innovations and Challenges in Somatosensory, Musculoskeletal, and Autonomic Microneurography