Exploring Heterogeneity in Vasopressinergic Neurons of the Supraoptic Nucleus: An Integrated Investigation of Electrical and Genetic Responses

• Grant number: 23/18449-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2024
• End date: November 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Biophysics - Cellular Biophysics
• Principal Investigator: Melina Pires da Silva
• Grantee: Julia Nogueira Lima
• Host Institution: Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São Paulo. São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 18/07027-5 - Role of astrocytes in the excitability of magnocelular neurons form supraoptic nucleus during changes in the plasma osmolality, AP.JP

Abstract

The hypothalamus plays a central role in regulating vital physiological functions, including hydroelectrolytic balance, body temperature control, circadian rhythm, appetite, and blood pressure. In response to physiological imbalances, hypothalamic nuclei act as an alert system, recruiting magnocellular neurons from the Supraoptic Nucleus (SON) that excel in regulating plasma osmolality through the production and secretion of oxytocin (OT) and vasopressin (VP). Stimuli such as dehydration have proven effective in altering SON neuron activity, ultimately reflecting in the peptides' secretion frequency into circulation. Additionally, morphological analyses of SON neurons reveal structural diversity in these cells in response to the same stimulus, suggesting the presence of distinct subpopulations. Given this, we hypothesize that vasopressinergic SON neurons may exhibit subpopulations and perform distinct functions under osmotic challenges. To test our hypothesis, electrophysiological experiments will be coupled with single-cell gene expression analysis to explore electrical properties and gene specificity. We believe that by the project's conclusion, we will contribute to understanding osmoregulation and introducing new concepts in this field of knowledge.