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    "story_id": "mp-2026-07-14-015",
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    "headline": "Fine Hair Has Its Own Itch Circuit",
    "slug": "fine-hair-has-its-own-itch-circuit",
    "dek": "Researchers traced mechanical itch to fine hairs, specialized nerve cells, and a dedicated spinal pathway.",
    "summary": "Researchers traced mechanical itch to fine hairs, specialized nerve cells, and a dedicated spinal pathway.",
    "body_text": "A newly described sensory network links fine body hairs to specialized neurons that respond to light mechanical irritation. Animal experiments and signs of a comparable human pathway suggest mechanical itch is processed through a more dedicated circuit than previously recognized. The work may clarify chronic itch mechanisms, but it does not yet provide a treatment.",
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    "tags": [
      "itch",
      "sensory neurons",
      "hair",
      "neuroscience"
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      "title": "ScienceDaily: Scientists discover why peach fuzz can make you itch",
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