Israeli scientists have identified a neural circuit in the brain that regulates learned immune responses, challenging the long-held assumption that the immune system cannot connect with sensory information stored in the brain. The research, published in Nature Neuroscience, reveals that the brain and immune system collaborate to prepare for future challenges and show how the body “learns” to activate the immune system based solely on sensory information and brain activity.
The study, led by Dr. Haneen Kayyal and Prof. Kobi Rosenblum, found that a specific neural circuit in the insula allows the brain to regulate the activity of the immune system through learning processes similar to associative learning. This circuit enables the brain to “represent” the immune system and integrate sensory inputs such as taste with memory.
The researchers replicated the conditioned immune response in mice, where a single pairing of consuming a novel taste with an injection of a substance derived from the bacterial capsule caused the mice to develop an aversion to the taste. They also found that there is a clear neural connection between the peripheral nervous system in the insula, making possible the passage of information.
The study’s findings have significant implications for treating diseases related to immune system problems, such as autoimmune disorders like diabetes or irritable bowel syndrome. The researchers emphasize that this basic understanding opens possibilities for coordinating behavior, brain activity, and immune system function to optimize disease treatment.
Source: https://www.jpost.com/science/article-842251