Form follows function: Morphological and molecular diversity of astrocytes in an inflammatory environment

This research project investigates the morphological and molecular diversity of astrocytes within inflammatory environments, with a specific focus on the role of Lipocalin-2 (LCN2) in astrocyte reactivity and inflammatory demyelination. Astrocytes, crucial players in central nervous system (CNS) pathology, exhibit significant functional and morphological changes under inflammatory conditions. The project utilizes innovative models of demyelination, including cuprizone and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), to explore astrocyte behavior under innate and adaptive immune signals.

Key objectives include quantifying astrocyte morphology in 2D and 3D environments, analyzing astrocyte polarization and proliferation, and elucidating the role of LCN2 in modulating inflammatory lesions and maintaining blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity. The study employs advanced imaging techniques, gene expression analysis, and in vitro co-culture systems to characterize LCN2-expressing astrocyte subpopulations and their interactions with endothelial cells and immune mediators.

This research aims to bridge gaps in understanding astrocyte heterogeneity, offering insights into CNS inflammation and paving the way for novel therapeutic strategies in multiple sclerosis and other neuroinflammatory disorders.