Neuroendocrinology and Neuroimmunology Program

The Neuroendocrinology Program supports fundamental research to elucidate the cellular and molecular mechanisms whereby hormones and hormone receptors, acting through nuclear and membrane receptors, modulate signaling in brain circuits relevant to affect, cognition, and social behavior. The Neuroimmunology Program supports fundamental research to identify mechanisms underlying the effects of immune cells, cytokines, and chemokines on neurodevelopment, signaling cascades, synaptic plasticity, brain circuits, and behaviors related to affect, cognition and social behavior.

Areas of interest include:

• Elucidating the effects of hormones and immune-mediated molecules in relevant signaling cascades and brain circuits during transition periods (e.g., pre- and early postnatal development, puberty, adolescence, pregnancy, postpartum).
• Elucidating the role(s) of genomic and non-genomic mechanisms of action of hormones in relevant signaling cascades and circuits in the intact CNS.
• Hormone and immune-mediated regulation of gene expression and function in relevant brain circuits.
• Studies of sex differences in relevant neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems.
• Characterizing interactions of immune and neuroendocrine signaling pathways in relevant brain circuits.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to discuss their proposals with the institute contact listed below prior to the submission of their applications to ascertain that their proposed work is aligned with NIMH funding priorities.

Contact

Nancy L Desmond, Ph.D.
Program Chief
6001 Executive Boulevard, Room 7197, MSC 9645
301-443-3107, ndesmond@nih.gov