A body-brain circuit that regulates body inflammatory responses. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38692285/)

These scientists wanted to understand how our body and brain work together to control our health. They found that when our immune system is activated, it sends signals to our brain through special nerve cells called vagal neurons. These signals tell the brain that there is an inflammation happening in the body.

By studying the genes and functions of these nerve cells, the scientists were able to see how the brain can regulate our immune responses. They discovered that by controlling this communication between the body and the brain, they could help the body better manage inflammation.

This discovery could lead to new ways to treat diseases where the immune system is not working properly, like autoimmune diseases or severe infections. By understanding how the body and brain talk to each other, scientists hope to find better ways to keep us healthy.

Jin H., Li M., Jeong E., Castro-Martinez F., Zuker CS. A body-brain circuit that regulates body inflammatory responses. Nature. 2024 May 1. doi: 10.1038/s41586-024-07469-y.