Learning Advanced Chemogenetic and Circuit Mapping Techniques to Investigate Neural Plasticity in Neuropathic Pain: An International Collaboration

• Grant number: 25/12568-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Morphology - Anatomy
• Mobility Program: SPRINT - Projetos de pesquisa - Mobilidade
• Principal Investigator: Marucia Chacur
• Grantee: Marucia Chacur
• Principal researcher abroad: Michael Vincent Baratta
• Institution abroad: University of Colorado Boulder , United States
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• City of the host institution: São Paulo
• Associated research grant: 22/08212-6 - Exploring pain management: evaluation of molecular, physical and biochemical mechanisms in response to photobiomodulation in a model of peripheral neuropathy, AP.TEM

Abstract

AbstractThe primary objective of this project is to strengthen the expertise of the University of São Paulo (USP) research team in applying advanced neural circuit mapping and chemogenetic modulation techniques to investigate neural plasticity mechanisms involved in neuropathic pain. This international collaboration with Professor Michael Baratta's laboratory at the University of Colorado Boulder will provide intensive training in three key approaches: the use of adenoviral vectors for targeted gene delivery, chemogenetic manipulation of specific neural circuits using DREADDs (Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs), and single-cell resolution gene expression mapping through RNAscope in situ hybridization. The São Paulo team, with consolidated expertise in preclinical models of neuropathic pain, behavioral assessment, and sex differences analysis, will integrate these new tools into their experimental portfolio, enhancing their capacity to investigate the interactions between pain, stress, and emotional regulation. The project includes training missions in the United States, adaptation and implementation of these techniques in São Paulo, and the development of joint studies focused on understanding how stress-related brain circuits (such as the dorsal raphe nucleus and the striatum) modulate chronic pain. In addition to strengthening the collaboration between the two groups, this initiative aims to generate scientific publications, joint funding proposals, and knowledge dissemination activities for the local scientific community. (AU)