Exploring the role of the mechanosensitive ion channel Piezo1 in macrophages in an experimental model of psoriasis

• Grant number: 23/17475-3
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: March 01, 2024
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Immunology - Cellular Immunology
• Principal Investigator: Niels Olsen Saraiva Câmara
• Grantee: Matheus Fernandes de Oliveira
• Host Institution: Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas (ICB). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 17/05264-7 - Cell metabolism, microbiota and immune system: new paradigms in renal diseases physiopathology, AP.TEM

Abstract

Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that affects approximately 1-3% of the world's population, including manifestations in the joints (psoriatic arthritis). The disease involves an exacerbated inflammatory response, highlighting the role of classically activated macrophages in its pathogenesis. The study proposes to investigate the role of the mechanosensitive ionic channel, Piezo1, in macrophages during inflammation caused by psoriasis. Piezo1 is linked to wound healing, hair loss and melanoma. The experiment, conducted in mice with induced psoriasis, will seek to understand how the activation or inhibition of Piezo1 affects inflammation and cell proliferation in lesions, using specific agonists and antagonists. Analyzes will include histological studies, measurements of cytokines and proteins, assessments of the inflammatory infiltrate and macrophage behavior. The expected results aim to provide a deeper understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms of psoriasis, potentially paving the way for the development of new therapeutic targets.