Senso-immunology: The Emerging Connection between Pain and Immunity

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Immunology
• Physiology

Background:

• The sensory and immune systems have historically been studied in isolation.
• Limited research has explored the intricate interactions between these two vital systems.
• Understanding these connections is crucial for developing novel therapeutic strategies.

Approach:

• Investigated the interplay between sensory and immune responses in fungal infections.
• Elucidated molecular mechanisms of fungal receptor expression on nociceptors and skin epithelium.
• Examined the role of gut epithelium mechanosensors in regulating colitis and bone metabolism.
• Discovered nociceptors' role in preventing septic death by inhibiting microglia.

Key Points:

• Nociceptors suppress inflammation and bone destruction during fungal infections.
• Fungal pain generation involves cooperation between fungal receptors on nociceptors and skin epithelium.
• Mechanosensors on gut epithelium regulate colitis and bone metabolism.
• Nociceptor-derived hormones inhibit microglia, preventing septic death.

Conclusions:

• The sensory and immune systems share molecular components and interact to maintain homeostasis and manage pathology.
• Advocates for the establishment of 'senso-immunology' as an interdisciplinary field.
• This emerging field holds promise for significant advancements in physiology and immunology.
• Expected to drive the development of innovative drugs for pain and inflammation treatment.