Monthly conference (PhD seminar): Agnès Nadjar

Microglia are the brain macrophages, eliciting multifaceted functions to maintain brain homeostasis across lifetime. To achieve this, microglia are able to sense a plethora of signals in their close environment. In our research, we explore the influence of nutrients on microglial function for several reasons: 1) Microglia exhibit all the necessary cellular machinery for nutrient sensing; 2) Dietary patterns have undergone significant changes in the past century, shifting towards high calorie diets; 3) This so-called “Western diet” correlates with a rise in neuropathologies, where microglia are recognized to play a substantial role.

During my presentation, I will share data illustrating how variations in nutrient intake can modify microglial function, leading to an exacerbation of synaptic pruning. These changes have profound implications for neuronal activity and subsequent behavior. Additionally, I will present previously undisclosed data shedding light on the mechanisms that underlie the impact of nutrients on microglia, particularly in the regulation of their metabolic activity.