Specific thalamic nuclei function as novel 'nociceptive discriminators' in the endogenous control of nociception in rats

► Descending controls differ in the modulation of peripheral nociceptive afferents. ► Thalamic MD and VM nuclei discriminate mechanically and heat mediated nociception. ► Thalamic MD nucleus facilitates mechanically evoked nociception. ► Heat-evoked nociception is inhibited by thalamic VM nucleus.