Talk Title: Immunologic Control of Physiology and Behavior

Abstract: Host defense systems are essential for survival and ubiquitous across the tree of life, reflecting the existential threat posed by pathogens. In animals, host defense has two modes: antimicrobial programs, which kill pathogens directly; and sickness, a state of altered physiology and behavior that arises from brain-immune system interactions. The molecular and cellular mechanisms by which the immune system shapes physiology and behavior remain poorly understood. I will present work that aims to illuminate these mechanisms across three different contexts: how the intestine balances nutrition and defense in response to the environment; how social environment shapes the behavioral response to sickness; and how diverse pathogens induce unique sickness states. Overall, my work investigates how the immune system shapes physiology and behavior in response to environmental change, towards a mechanistic understanding of the biology of sickness, a crucial feature of host defense.

The Rising Stars Award in MIT's Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences (BCS) is awarded to 2 postdoctoral scholars per year. Recipients are awarded based on their outstanding research accomplishments and their extraordinary potential to succeed as independent research faculty. This award also aims to enhance diversity and representation in the brain and cognitive sciences. Awardees receive a cash prize and are invited to present their research in the BCS Colloquium Series.

Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89002014229

Followed by a reception with food and drink