The role of pre-sympathetic neurons activated by systemic inflammatory stimuli in autoimmune disease models

• Grant number: 25/13599-5
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Physiology - Physiology of Organs and Systems
• Principal Investigator: Pedro Lourenço Katayama
• Grantee: Jenifer Ribeiro Matos
• 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

We recently identified a novel mechanism by which carotid bodies detect elevated circulating TNF-¿ levels and recruit the sympathetic nervous system to induce an anti-inflammatory mechanism. This project seeks to elucidate the role of specific brainstem pre-sympathetic neurons that are activated by circulating inflammatory mediators in preclinical models of rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. We hypothesize that chronic activation of these neurons, triggered by the systemic inflammation characteristic of these diseases, results in autonomic dysfunctions. These dysfunctions, in turn, would negatively impact the immune and endocrine systems, which are crucial in regulating the inflammatory response and in the pathophysiology of these autoimmune diseases. To test this hypothesis, we will employ an integrative approach combining genetic and molecular tools to access and manipulate specific neuronal subpopulations, with functional evaluations in preclinical models. We believe this project will provide innovative results that will deepen our understanding of neuroimmunomodulation in autoimmune diseases.