Xinzhong Dong

Xinzhong Dong is a Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, with secondary appointments in Neurosurgery and Dermatology. He leads an active research laboratory focused on the molecular and genetic basis of pain and itch sensation.

His research centers on Mas-related G-protein-coupled receptors (Mrgs) expressed in nociceptive sensory neurons. Using transgenic mouse models, molecular genetics, and in vivo imaging, his lab investigates how these receptors regulate pain, itch, and neuroimmune interactions. Key areas include chronic pain mechanisms, non-histaminergic pruritus, mast cell-sensory neuron crosstalk, and the role of sensory neurons in inflammation and infection.

His recent publications (2024–2016) reveal a strong trend in identifying novel GPCRs involved in sensory pathophysiology, particularly in skin and immune interactions. Work spans from basic receptor characterization to translational implications for analgesic and anti-itch therapies. His lab has pioneered tools like the Pirt-GCaMP3 mouse for imaging sensory neuron activity.

• Professor, Department of Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
• Joint appointments in Neurosurgery and Dermatology
• Research focus: Molecular mechanisms of pain and itch
• Expertise in GPCRs, sensory neurons, neuroimmunology
• Developed key genetic tools for sensory neuron imaging

Dong has mentored a large number of postdoctoral fellows and PhD students, many of whom have secured faculty positions or research roles at institutions including Washington University, Northwestern University, and NIH. While no specific awards are listed, his work has been published in top-tier journals such as Nature, Cell, Neuron, and Immunity, and featured in major media outlets. His lab continues to explore novel pathways in nociception and sensory biology, with implications for drug development.

He maintains an active research program with current postdocs, PhD students, and staff. His laboratory is located in the Solomon H. Snyder Department of Neuroscience in Baltimore, MD.