Ep. 14: “Neuroimmunology and Behavior” Featuring Dr. Michael Burton
Sep 28, 2021
auto_awesome
Dr. Michael Burton discusses the immune-brain-neuron axis impacting pain and immune responses. Topics include nanoparticle vaccines for COVID, advancements in immunotherapy, neuroimmunology research, and the interaction between the nervous and immune systems.
Neuroimmunology studies the immune-nervous system interaction, focusing on pain and behavior.
Peripheral sensory neurons and immune cells communicate bidirectionally, impacting pain and inflammation.
TLR4 in sensory neurons influences pain responses, while metabolic interactions shape sex-specific pain sensitivity.
Deep dives
Understanding the Evolution of Neuroimmunology and Pain Research
Neuroimmunology, a young field coined in 1980, explores the communication between the immune and nervous systems. Dr. Burton's interest in this field stemmed from his experiences with injuries and their impact on behavior, prompting his research on signaling mechanisms of cytokines like interleukin 6. His transition to pain research involved investigating sex differences and immune receptor modulation of acute and chronic pain responses.
Unique Interactions Between Immune Cells and Peripheral Sensory Neurons
Peripheral sensory neurons and immune cells engage in multifaceted communication, influencing pain responses and inflammatory processes. Dr. Burton highlights the bidirectional relationship between immune cells and sensory neurons, with chemokines like CCL2 recruiting immune cells and neurotransmitters conveying anti-inflammatory signals to modulate inflammation and pain.
The Role of Toll-like Receptor 4 in Pain Modulation and Sex-based Metabolic Differences
Research on Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) in peripheral sensory neurons underscores its influence on acute and chronic pain responses and its role in orchestrating differential pain sensitivity between males and females. Metabolic interactions contribute to the activation of TLR4, shaping distinct pain responses based on hormonal and sex-specific factors.
Insights from K Awards and Academic Career Development
Navigating career development awards (K Awards) and academic progression involves strategic mentorship, research novelty, and specialized training to secure funding and carve a unique scientific niche. Dr. Burton's K Award success and academic journey underscore the importance of collaborative mentorship and pursuing diverse research directions for career advancement.
Personal Preferences Outside Research
Dr. Burton's personal interests include exploring new recipes and spice combinations through cooking, emphasizing a scientific approach to culinary creativity. As a non-coffee drinker, his day begins with an ice-cold glass of water to kickstart his mornings. If given the chance, flying would be his preferred superpower, reflecting his adventurous spirit and desire for exploration.
Dr. Michael Burton is an Assistant Professor at the University of Texas in Dallas. His lab studies the complex interactions between the immune and nervous systems that lead to pain, depression, and sickness.
Nanoparticle Vaccines for SARS-CoV-2 Variants – Researchers showed that a receptor-binding domain nanoparticle vaccine generated neutralizing antibodies against multiple SARS-CoV-2 variants and related animal coronaviruses.
