The new study allowed for more detailed mapping of the neuronal expression of IL-1R1 (nIL-1R1) in the brain of rats, resolving long-standing inconsistencies.
A interleucin-1 (IL-1) is a key molecule involved in inflammation. High levels of IL-1 in the brain are linked to neuroinflammation, which can disrupt the body’s response to stress, cause disease-like behaviors, worsen inflammation by activating immune cells, and allow the body’s immune cells to enter the brain.
In addition to causing brain damage, high levels of IL-1 are also associated with mood disorders, such as depression, and problems with memory and thinking.
Under normal conditions without inflammation, IL-1 plays an essential role in the brain, helping to regulate hormonal activity, support healthy sleep patterns and improve cognitive functions.
According to , the IL-1R1 (the type 1 interleukin-1 receptor) is like a bell in cells that is rung when there is an infection or injury and, in immune cells, tells the body to initiate an immune response.
Recently, a new study carried out by scientists from Florida Atlantic University, in the United States, revealed the more detailed and comprehensive mapping of IL-1R1 neuronal expression in the brain of guinea pigs.
The experiments allowed us to identify neurons in certain areas of the brain – such as the somatosensory cortex, hippocampus and others – that have neuronal IL-1R1.
Most of these neurons—involved in circuits that control sensory processing, mood regulation, and memory—use glutamate (a neurotransmitter for signaling), while others use serotonin.
“Our study shows how certain neurons are linked to immune signals and may help explain how inflammation contributes to sensory, mood and memory disorders,” explained scientist Ning Quan.
“These discoveries could allow the development of new ways to treat brain disorders linked to inflammation. In terms of behavioral implications, our results support the hypothesis that nIL-1R1 signaling influences emotional and cognitive behavior,” he added.
Although the researchers found neuronal IL-1R1 in brain regions related to mood, affect, and cognition, they also found that IL-1R1 is expressed in brain neurons. sensory system.
With the help of high-tech spatial transcriptomics, scientists have identified that neuronal IL-1R1 regulates gene pathways involved in synapse organization without triggering inflammation, suggesting that IL-1R1 has a role in synaptic formation and can modify neural circuits as well as their function.
The findings were published in Journal of Neuroinflammation.
