Role of B1 and B2 kinin receptors in inflammatory modulation induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in astrocyte cell culture

• Grant number: 24/17233-2
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: December 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology
• Principal Investigator: Frederick Wasinski
• Grantee: Luana Lavezo
• Host Institution: Escola Paulista de Medicina (EPM). Universidade Federal de São Paulo (UNIFESP). Campus São Paulo. São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 19/07005-4 - Kinin receptor B2 participation in the nervous system with emphasis on the dopaminergic circuit, AP.JP

Abstract

Astrocytes are glial cells of the central nervous system (CNS) that play essential roles in maintaining homeostasis and neuronal defense, interacting with neurons and blood vessels. Preliminary studies indicate that bradykinin, a peptide of the kallikrein-kinin system, can elevate Ca2+ levels in astrocytes, potentially modulating neuronal activity. This study aims to investigate how the kallikrein-kinin system, through the B1 and B2 kinin receptors, modulates intracellular Ca2+ signaling in astrocytes. Additionally, the study seeks to evaluate the role of these receptors in the inflammatory response mediated by astrocytes. Using advanced techniques such as astrocyte cell culture, immunofluorescence, and real-time PCR, the research analyzes gene expression and the interactions between receptors and agonists in cultured astrocytes. Our goal is to deepen the understanding of the mechanisms by which B1 receptors modulate intracellular Ca2+ signaling in astrocytes and to specifically investigate how B1 and B2 kinin receptors influence the dynamics and intensity of the cellular inflammatory response. The study will focus on analyzing cytokines produced in response to this induction, observing their patterns and interactions, in order to understand the specificity of the inflammatory response. These insights may contribute to the development of new therapies for neurological and psychiatric disorders.