Investigation of Neurodegenerative Mechanisms Associated with Environmental Factors

• Grant number: 24/10984-2
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: April 01, 2025
• End date: March 31, 2028
• Field of knowledge: Interdisciplinary Subjects
• Principal Investigator: Marina Piacenti da Silva
• Grantee: Marina Piacenti da Silva
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated researchers: Camila de Oliveira Rodini Pegoraro ; Carolina Letícia Zilli Vieira ; Daniel Rinaldo ; Juliano Morimoto Borges ; Karen Cristiane Martinez de Moraes ; Lucas Anhezini de Araujo ; Wallance Moreira Pazin

Abstract

With increasing life expectancy, the rising incidence of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) is one of the greatest public health challenges worldwide, with a growing impact on quality of life and the economics of healthcare systems. Although genetics plays a fundamental role in the predisposition to these diseases, environmental factors are often underestimated and neglected. Recent studies point to an interaction between environmental pollutants and brain pathological mechanisms, suggesting a significant influence on the incidence and progression of DN. However, there are still gaps in the understanding of how these factors specifically contribute to neurodegeneration, especially regarding the molecular and cellular mechanisms involved. The aim of this project is to understand how prolonged exposure to specific environmental pollutants - metallic particles and electromagnetic radiation - influences the development and progression of DN. The fly Drosophila melanogaster will be used to assess the direct influence of environmental pollutants on models of DN in vivo. Analyses will include characterization of neurodegeneration through behavioral, histological and molecular tests. Exposure to pollutants will be simulated under controlled conditions to assess the effects on neuronal function, behavior and progression of neurodegenerative phenotypes. The results will provide valuable insights into how interactions between environmental factors lead to neurodegeneration. Using a multidisciplinary approach, the study also aims to identify potential targets for effective prevention and treatment of these diseases. (AU)