Uncovering Adipose-Brain Crosstalk in Alzheimer's Disease

• Grant number: 24/22135-0
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Visiting Researcher Grant - Brazil
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Physiology of Organs and Systems
• Principal Investigator: Marcelo Alves da Silva Mori
• Grantee: Marcelo Alves da Silva Mori
• Visiting researcher: Claudia Pinto Figueiredo
• Visiting researcher institution: Faculdade De Farmácia/Ff/Ufrj, Brazil
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biologia (IB). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/08354-2 - The interplay between the immune system and metabolism as a key determinant of the aging process, AP.TEM

Abstract

The project "Uncovering Adipose-Brain Crosstalk in Alzheimer's Disease" investigates the role of adipose tissue (AT)-derived microRNAs (miRNAs) in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. The central hypothesis is that miRNAs produced by AT can cross the blood-brain barrier, directly influence neuronal function, and contribute to disease progression. Using animal models and post-mortem samples from AD patients, the study aims to identify miRNAs transported to the brain and understand their impacts on neurodegeneration. Advanced genetic manipulation and behavioral analysis techniques will be applied to explore the role of miRNAs in memory and learning, focusing on the hippocampus.Additionally, the visiting researcher, Prof. Claudia Pinto Figueiredo, will contribute her expertise in neuroscience and animal models, implementing standardized techniques, training students, and fostering interinstitutional collaborations. The research aims not only to advance understanding of the interplay between peripheral metabolism and brain health but also to identify potential therapeutic interventions to delay or prevent AD, aligning with public health strategies. (AU)