Agnes Nadjar
Title
Neuroimmune mechanisms in metabolic resilience
Abstrat
Over the course of evolution, female mammals have developed exceptional metabolic flexibility, enabling them to sustain reproduction even in times of food scarcity and to optimize energy utilization while supporting the high demands of fetal development. This adaptability provides women with a unique ability to maintain energy balance across varying physiological states, whether processing a calorie-rich meal or enduring fasting.
At the core of these regulatory processes is the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus (ARH), which integrates hormonal, neuronal, and nutritional signals. Within the ARH, interactions between distinct neuronal populations and glial cells—including microglia—play a crucial role in fine-tuning whole-body metabolism. However, the precise brain mechanisms underlying the greater metabolic resilience observed in females remain largely unexplored.
In my presentation, I will share novel findings demonstrating how an acute caloric surplus alters neuron-microglia interactions within the ARH and the behavioral consequences in mice. Particular focus will be given to the bioenergetic adaptations of microglia in response to excess calories. Given that a loss of metabolic plasticity in the ARH is a key mechanism in obesity development, this work could pave the way for more effective and personalized treatments for the disease.
Biography
Agnès Nadjar is a Professor at Bordeaux University and works in the Energy Balance and Obesity Research Team. Her research focuses on how hypothalamic neuronal and glial cells respond to energy availability to regulate food intake, body weight, and metabolism. They study energy-sensing mechanisms like the mTOR pathway and the endocannabinoid system, using animal models and advanced neuroscience techniques to explore relevant neuronal circuits. Additionally, they conduct clinical studies to better understand obesity phenotypes in humans, aiming to improve personalized therapies.