Differential encoding of mammalian proprioception by voltage-gated sodium channels.

Animals requiring purposeful movement for survival are endowed with mechanoreceptors, called proprioceptors, that provide essential sensory feedback from muscles and joints to spinal cord circuits, which modulates motor output. Despite the essential nature of proprioceptive signaling in daily life, the mechanisms governing proprioceptor activity are poorly understood. Here, we identified nonredundant roles for two voltage-gated sodium channels (Nas), Na1.

Early Life Stress, DNA Methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, and Oral Feeding Skill Development in Preterm Infants: A Pilot Study.

Background: Early life stress exposure in preterm infants may alter DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, disrupting neurobehaviors needed for oral feeding (PO) skill development.

Purpose: To (1) examine the feasibility of the study protocol; (2) describe early life stress, DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, and PO skill development; and (3) explore the association between DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2 and infant characteristics, early life stress, and PO skill development.

Method: We employed a longitudinal descriptive pilot study (N = 10).

Functional Immunophenotyping for Precision Therapies in Sepsis.

Sepsis remains a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. While many more patients are surviving the acute event, a substantial number enter a state of persistent inflammation and immunosuppression, rendering them more vulnerable to infections. Modulating the host immune response has been a focus of sepsis research for the past fifty years, yet novel therapies have been few and far between.

Epigenetics Embedding of Oral Feeding Skill Development in Preterm Infants: A Study Protocol.

Background: Preterm infants face challenges to feed orally, which may lead to failure to thrive. Oral feeding skill development requires intact neurobehaviors. Early life stress results in DNA methylation of NR3C1 and HSD11B2, which may disrupt neurobehaviors.