Interleukin-1 (IL-1) is a pro-inflammatory cytokine that exerts a wide range of neurological and immunological effects throughout the central nervous system (CNS) and is associated with the etiology of affective and cognitive disorders. The cognate receptor for IL-1, Interleukin-1 Receptor Type 1 (IL-1R1), is primarily expressed on non-neuronal cells (e.g.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFRecent advancements in tissue-clearing techniques and volumetric imaging have greatly facilitated visualization and quantification of biomolecules, organelles, and cells in intact organs or even entire organisms. Generally, there are two types of clearing methods: hydrophobic and hydrophilic (i.e.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFThere is a clinical need for new treatment options addressing allergic disease. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a class of antidepressants that have anti-inflammatory properties. We tested the effects of the SSRI fluoxetine on IgE-induced function of mast cells, which are critical effectors of allergic inflammation.
View Article and Find Full Text PDFAutism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a common neurobehavioral disorder with limited treatment options. Activation of p38 MAPK signaling networks has been identified in ASD, and p38 MAPK signaling elevates serotonin (5-HT) transporter (SERT) activity, effects mimicked by multiple, hyperfunctional SERT coding variants identified in ASD subjects. Mice expressing the most common of these variants (SERT Ala56) exhibit hyperserotonemia, a biomarker observed in ASD subjects, as well as p38 MAPK-dependent SERT hyperphosphorylation, elevated hippocampal 5-HT clearance, hypersensitivity of CNS 5-HT and 5-HT receptors, and behavioral and gastrointestinal perturbations reminiscent of ASD.
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