Novel expression of MHC II in DRG neurons attenuates paclitaxel-induced cold hypersensitivity in male and female mice

Chemotherapy is often a life-saving treatment, but the development of intractable pain caused by chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a major dose-limiting toxicity that restricts survival rates. Recent reports demonstrate that paclitaxel (PTX) robustly increases anti-inflammatory CD4⁺T cells in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), and that T cells and anti-inflammatory cytokines are protective against CIPN. However, the mechanism by which CD4⁺T cells are activated, and the extent cytokines released by CD4⁺T cells target DRG neurons are unknown. Here, we found novel expression of functional major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII) protein in DRG neurons, and CD4⁺T cells in close proximity to DRG neurons, together suggesting CD4⁺T cell activation and targeted cytokine release. MHCII protein is primarily expressed in small nociceptive neurons in male mouse DRG regardless of PTX, while MHCII is induced in small nociceptive neurons in female DRG after PTX. Accordingly, reducing MHCII in small nociceptive neurons increased hypersensitivity to cold only in naïve male mice, but increased severity of PTX-induced cold hypersensitivity in both sexes. Collectively, our results demonstrate expression of MHCII on DRG neurons and a functional role during homeostasis and inflammation.