Unveiling the Brain-Body Dialogue: A New Chapter in Obesity Research

Alessandro Furlan, Assistant Professor at the Department of Neuroscience, embarks on a groundbreaking journey with the support of a prestigious ERC Starting Grant. Awarded by the European Research Council, this grant is a testament to the innovative potential of Furlan's research, which seeks to unravel the intricate communication pathways between the brain and adipose tissue. This exploration could revolutionize our approach to combating obesity and its related diseases.

Furlan's research is poised to delve into the unknown, leveraging an interdisciplinary toolkit encompassing opto- and chemo-genetics, single-cell sequencing, in vivo imaging, and metabolic phenotyping. By dissecting the complex interactions between nerves and fat cells, his team aims to uncover novel insights into body weight regulation and energy balance.

This ERC grant is more than just financial backing; it is a recognition of Furlan's potential to contribute significantly to the field of neuroscience and physiology. Over the next five years, this support will enable him to push the boundaries of current scientific understanding, exploring new horizons in the fight against obesity.

Collaboration is at the heart of Furlan's research strategy. With a network of experts spanning endocrinology, neuroscience, and molecular neurobiology, both within Sweden and internationally, this project is a collective endeavor. These collaborations will enrich the study, ensuring a comprehensive approach to tackling the multifaceted challenges of obesity research.

Alessandro Furlan's work, propelled by the ERC Starting Grant, symbolizes a beacon of hope in addressing the global obesity epidemic. By focusing on the symbiotic relationship between the brain and body, his research promises not only to advance our scientific knowledge but also to pave the way for innovative treatment strategies. As we look forward to the outcomes of Furlan's pioneering work, it's clear that this grant represents both a personal achievement and a significant leap forward for medical research.