Neuro-immune interactions in inflammatory pain: investigating the modulatory role and therapeutic potential of extracellular vesicles

This project investigates the endogenous molecular pathways governing pain resolution. The central aim of the project is to understand how neuronal metabolism is reprogrammed to resolve inflammatory pain, and which is the role of immune system in this process. A key area of interest is the role of macrophages, which support neuronal recovery by transferring mitochondria to sensory neurons via extracellular vesicles. These vesicles contain molecular components that promote pain resolution. By uncovering the mechanisms behind metabolic reprogramming, vesicle-mediated communication, and mitochondrial dynamics, this project aims to identify novel therapeutic targets for the treatment of chronic inflammatory pain.

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Valeria Spanu