Regulatory T cells altered in children with autism

Paul Ashwood, Ph.D.

Two new studies from the UC Davis MIND Institute examined regulatory T cells (Tregs) and their potential role in neuroinflammation and behavioral changes associated with autism.

Tregs act as immune system "brakes," calming inflammation to prevent overreaction. They are often decreased in autistic individuals.

Previous studies have found higher levels of inflammatory immune cells in the blood, brain and gastrointestinal tissues of people with autism. These increased inflammatory responses are often linked to greater behavioral support needs, while higher levels of Tregs are associated with improved behavioral outcomes. Despite this, Tregs have not been well studied in autistic children, and their potential as a therapeutic target remains largely unexplored.

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Janine LaSalle elected as AAAS Fellow for shaping science of neurological conditions

Janine LaSalle, Ph.D.

Professor Janine LaSalle along with Professor David J. Segal has been elected Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). With this lifetime honor, she joins a century-long UC Davis legacy of AAAS Fellows who lead exceptional science scholarship.

Janine LaSalle is a professor of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, affiliated with the MIND Institute and the Genome Center. She is also deputy director of the Environmental Health Sciences Center and co-director of the Perinatal Origins of Disparities Center. She was elected an AAAS Fellow for her pioneering research on gene x environment epigenetics (heritable chromosome changes that affect gene functions), specifically for autism. She’s also being honored for her research on epigenetic mechanisms in neurodevelopmental conditions and the placenta.

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How an imbalanced gut microbiome worsens chronic kidney disease

Andreas Bäumler (left) and Jee-Yon Lee (right)

Researchers at UC Davis School of Medicine have uncovered how an imbalanced gut microbiome escalates the production of metabolic byproducts by certain gut bacteria. This imbalance drives a feedback loop that worsens chronic kidney disease (CKD) in mice. The scientists identified an investigational drug that might break the destructive cycle. The findings were published in Science.

The team showed that kidney impairment increased nitrate levels in the colon. The nitrates turbocharged Escherichia coli’s (E. coli) production of indole, an organic compound that turns into a harmful waste product — indoxyl sulfate — that further damages the kidneys.

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In memoriam: Demosthenes Pappagianis

Demosthenes Pappagianis, M.D., Ph.D.

UC Davis Health honors the life and legacy of Demosthenes "Demo" Pappagianis, the founding chair of the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology at the UC Davis School of Medicine.

Pappagianis made exceptional leadership contributions in establishing diagnostics and research programs on Coccidioidomycosis (commonly known as Valley Fever) at UC Davis. Through his dedication and foresight, UC Davis became a leading center for the study and diagnosis of this disease.

Pappagianis received his M.D. from Stanford and Ph.D. from UC Berkeley. He joined UC Davis in 1967, where he established the diagnostic and research program on Coccidioidomycosis. He served as medical director of the Coccidioidomycosis Serology Group Laboratory, which continues to provide the gold standard clinical diagnostic service for Coccidioides infections.

Throughout his career, Pappagianis provided exceptional leadership and vision in advancing Coccidioidomycosis diagnostics and clinical research. He was a remarkable colleague, mentor and teacher who positively influenced the lives and careers of many. Beyond his scientific leadership, Pappagianis will be remembered for his generosity, dedication and unwavering commitment to advancing this important field of work. He leaves behind a legacy of discovery, mentorship and service.

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