Anatomical, molecular and functional characterization of presympathetic neurons activated by systemic inflammation

• Grant number: 24/08799-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: July 01, 2024
• End date: June 30, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Physiology of Organs and Systems
• Principal Investigator: Pedro Lourenço Katayama
• Grantee: Livia Eduarda Cabrera Corrêa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Odontologia (FOAr). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Araraquara. Araraquara , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/07741-8 - Exploring the mechanisms and consequences of autonomic dysfunction in autoimmune diseases: an integrative approach, AP.JP

Abstract

Neuroimmune interactions refer to the communication between the nervous system and the immune system, playing a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and organizing responses to diseases. These interactions are bidirectional, meaning the nervous system can influence the immune response and vice versa. Circulating inflammatory mediators, synthesized and secreted by immune cells, affect neuronal circuits that modulate autonomic functions, including presympathetic neurons.In this project, we will use a combination of experimental methodologies to perform an anatomical, molecular, and functional characterization of presympathetic neuron subpopulations activated by specific systemic inflammatory stimuli. The results obtained from this project aim to enhance our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the complex interactions between the nervous and immune systems.