Role of serotonergic signaling in regulation of neuroimmune interactions within the gastrointestinal tract under physiological and pathological conditions (C12#)

• Subject Area: Gastroenterology
• Term: from 2010 to 2013
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5485201

Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) is an important gastrointestinal (GI) signaling molecule, which is critically involved in maintaining intestinal homeostasis by stimulation of local nervous reflexes. Moreover, immune modulation of intestinal 5-HT content has been obtained in variety of pro-inflammatory disorders of the GI tract. However, the mechanisms regulating the 5-HT mediated signaling as well as the precise role of 5-HT receptors upon inflammation are still unknown. In this project we will analyze the functional importance of the most relevant 5-HT receptors, including 5-HT1A, 5-HT4 and 5-HT7 in the modulation of neuro-immune networks in the GI tract. We will also elucidate the mechanisms regulating the functional interplay between the immune and enteric nervous systems upon physiological and pathological conditions.

• DFG Programme: Collaborative Research Centres
• Subproject of: SFB 621: Pathobiology of the Intestinal Mucosa
• Applicant Institution: Medizinische Hochschule Hannover
• Project Head: Professor Dr. Evgeni Ponimaskin