Toxic PCBs, sex-biased genes and the developing brain

Janine LaSalle, Ph.D.

In two new studies, researchers at the UC Davis MIND Institute have clarified how a long-banned group of chemicals, called polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) affect genetic activity. The research helps explain how biological systems respond to these exposures, including key differences between males and females.

“PCBs were banned in the 1970s but are still around us,” said Janine LaSalle, professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, MIND Institute faculty member and senior author on both studies. “PCB chemicals are decreasing in the environment, but surprisingly, low exposure levels aren’t always less hazardous. Higher chemical levels can trigger the body to turn on DNA repair and other stress-related pathways. However, lower levels can slip under the body’s radar and have long-term effects.”

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Inaugural symposium connects UC Davis scientists with biotech leaders

More than 100 students, postdoctoral scholars, faculty members and biotechnology leaders gathered April 3 for the Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology’s inaugural symposium, Breaking Boundaries — From Discovery to Intervention, marking a successful first step in building deeper connections between academic research and industry innovation at UC Davis.

Held at the Genome and Biomedical Sciences Facility on the UC Davis campus, the daylong event brought together thought leaders from academia and the biotechnology sector to explore how bench discoveries can more effectively translate into real-world interventions. Attendees described the symposium as energetic, engaging and rich with opportunities for meaningful conversation and collaboration.

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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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