07.08.2024 – 4min

A Visionary in Neuroscience: Dr. Diego Bohórquez on Healing the Brain Through the Gut

Join us for an exclusive interview with Dr. Diego Bohórquez, an esteemed Associate Professor at Duke University and a distinguished member of the Departments of Medicine, Pathology, Neurobiology, and Cell Biology. As a Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, Dr. Bohórquez is at the forefront of groundbreaking research that is reshaping our understanding of the gut-brain axis — the intricate communication network between these two essential systems.

In this insightful conversation, Dr. Bohórquez delves into his pioneering work on gut sensory cells called neuropods, revealing the profound ways in which our gut influences our appetites, food choices, and even our overall well-being. Discover the potential of the gut-brain axis to unlock new therapies for brain disorders and transform the way we approach mental and physical health.

Q: How does a typical day in your lab look like?

D: Our lab is a dynamic place! We blend experiments, data analysis, and collaboration. We’re particularly interested in how the gut talks to the brain, influencing what we crave and eat. We use advanced tools like the TSE PhenoMaster and IntelliCage to study animal behavior, and even optogenetics to directly manipulate gut sensations.

Q: What sparked your interest in this field? Was there a defining moment?

D: The gut-brain connection was surprisingly understudied when I began. I was fascinated by the idea that our gut feelings might have a scientific basis. We now know the gut is filled with specialized sensory cells called neuropods, which send signals to the brain. This is a whole new frontier of medicine.

Q: Were there any challenges or doubts you faced early on? How did you overcome them?

D: It was a risky path. Many people doubted that the gut could play such a significant role in our health and behavior. But mentors encouraged us to trust our instincts. Their support, and the early results we saw on neuropods, their connection to neurons, fueled our determination.

Q: Your research uses cutting-edge technology like optogenetics and real-time phenotyping systems like the PhenoMaster. Can you explain how that works and how it helps you understand the gut-brain relationship?

D: The PhenoMaster is an advanced metabolic cage system that we use to study the relationship between gut sensations and food choices in animals. It allows us to monitor and analyze various physiological and behavioral parameters, such as food intake, energy expenditure, and activity patterns. Additionally, we use optogenetics to precisely control neuronal activity in the gut using light. This combination of technologies enables us to manipulate gut sensations and observe the resulting changes in feeding behavior, providing valuable insights into how gut feelings influence decision-making. Although our current focus is on animal models, we believe our findings have the potential to develop therapies for human appetite-related disorders.

Q: You have worked with TSE Systems for eight years. What made that partnership so successful?

D: TSE Systems is a true partner. Their technology is top-notch, but what sets them apart is their commitment to understanding our research goals. They are always there to help us troubleshoot or adapt their systems to our specific needs. It’s a great example of how academic-industry collaboration can drive innovation.

Q: Your discoveries have reshaped our understanding of gut-brain biology. What are the most exciting implications for the future?

D: I believe we can heal the brain by targeting the gut. Our research is revealing new ways to influence our appetites and food choices, which could revolutionize the treatment of obesity, eating disorders, and even brain diseases. We’re also learning how gut bacteria communicate with the brain, opening up possibilities for microbiome-based therapies.

Q: You are not only a great scientist but also a skilled communicator. How do you make complex science relatable to the public?

D: I think science should be for everyone. I try to use clear language, storytelling, and visuals to explain complex concepts. Two books that have inspired me are “How to Win Friends and Influence People” and “Resonate.” The key is to connect with your audience on a human level. Effective communication not only advances scientific progress but also fosters collaboration and inspires the next generation of scientists.

Q: You founded the Gastronauts, a scientific community dedicated to gut-brain research. What inspired you to create this group?

D: The Gastronauts started as informal gatherings for scientists interested in this emerging field. It’s grown into a global society with seminars, a podcast, and a foundation to support the next generation of researchers. I’m incredibly proud of how it’s fostering collaboration and advancing our understanding of the gut-brain connection.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

D: Listen to life with empathy. It’s a skill that has enriched my research and personal life in countless ways.

Q: What’s your goal in this field?

D: My vision is a future where we can develop therapies that intervene in the gut-brain dialogue, leading to better health and well-being for everyone.

Thank you for your nice interview. We wish you all the best in your future work and look forward to hearing about your new discoveries.

Find out more about the research of Dr. Diego Bohorquez:

Dr. Diego Bohórquez: The Science of Your Gut Sense & the Gut-Brain Axis

TED Talk How does our gut talk to our brain?

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