Award details

Neuro-immune influences on enterochromaffin (EC) cell function and their role in visceral afferent signalling

Reference	D20437
Principal Investigator / Supervisor	Dr Adrian Smith
Co-Investigators / Co-Supervisors
Institution	The Pirbright Institute
Department	Compton Laboratory
Funding type	Research
Value (£)	10,241
Status	Completed
Type	Research Grant
Start date	01/01/2004
End date	31/12/2006
Duration	36 months

Abstract

Intestinal EC cells are pivotal in transducing luminal stimuli by releasing 5HT which acts on afferent nerve endings. Mucosal 5HT concentration is determined by the balance between release and reuptake via the serotonin transporters (SERT). Pilot data shows inflammation increases EC cell, lymphocyte and mast cell numbers while decreasing SERT expression but how this alters visceral signalling is unknown. Using genetically modified and steroid treated T. spiralis infected mice to achieve selective increases in each cell type we can determine their respective roles. We will assess mucosal histology, 5HT release, reuptake in each model and record afferent nerve responses to nutrients and gut distension. Finally we will use fMRI to show patterns of brain activation with and without EC hyperplasia using serotonin and other antagonists to determine the underlying mediators. (Joint with D20434 and D20428).

Summary

unavailable

Committee	Closed Committee - Agri-food (AF)
Research Topics	X – not assigned to a current Research Topic
Research Priority	X – Research Priority information not available
Research Initiative	X - not in an Initiative
Funding Scheme	X – not Funded via a specific Funding Scheme

Associated awards:

D20428 Neuro-immune influences on enterochromaffin (EC) cell function and their role in visceral afferent signalling

D20434 Neuro-immune influences on enterochromaffin (EC) cell function and their role in visceral afferent signalling

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