Project R-13392

Neural control of gut regeneration: a (r)evolutionary question? (Research)

The intestinal epithelium is in a constant regenerative state to maintain its function as a vital barrier preventing pathogens and toxins from entering the body while, at the same time, allowing the uptake of nutrients, water and electrolytes. In its dynamic nature, intestinal function is influenced by signals of various types of intestinal cells, the associated microbiome, and neural connections. However, the tissue dynamics during intestinal regeneration are still poorly understood, especially the communication and coordination of regenerative cues in this context. Several studies in vertebrates and lower order organisms demonstrate that neural activity steers gut regeneration, but regenerative capacity is distributed unequally among species. Therefore, studying this process in the highly regenerative planarian Schmidtea mediterranea can elucidate the fundamental knowledge gaps about the mechanisms and cells controlling self-renewal and lineage commitment during intestinal regeneration. I hypothesize that, from an evolutionary perspective, the nervous system operates as a signaling hub regulating gut organization and function, and integrating the luminal environment to ensure tissue remodeling and maintain homeostasis.

01 November 2022 - 31 October 2027