A new book, Brain-Body Connections, co-edited by Prof Daniela Tropea and Dr Emanuela Giacometti, explores the intricate links between the brain and the rest of the body. Several FutureNeuro investigators, including Prof Tropea, Prof Matt Campbell, and our Director Prof David Henshall, contributed chapters, highlighting their research in areas such as IGF signaling, the blood–brain barrier, and microRNAs. 

The book brings together insights from 12 leading scientists, whose contributions aim to inspire a deeper understanding of how molecular biology, physiology, and medicine intersect in unravelling the mysteries of brain–body communication. 

Inspiration and Focus 

Reflecting on the motivation behind the book, Prof Tropea explains: “Recent developments in brain research clearly show integration among all tissues in the body, including the brain. In my own work, I see that mutations in genes associated with neurodevelopmental disorders affect several organs, not only the brain. I thought it was time to create a book that addresses brain–body communication directly by inviting leading neuroscientists to present their research in their areas of expertise.” 

On selecting the topics, she adds: “Together with my co-editor, we selected the most popular topics, while acknowledging that there is much more that deserves referencing.” 

Why Brain–Body Communication Matters 

Prof Tropea emphasises that understanding brain function requires a holistic perspective: “To understand how the brain works, it is essential to remember its main function: adapting the body to stimuli from both outside and inside. Moreover, a priority in studying brain disorders is to identify accessible biomarkers that correlate with clinical presentation or symptom severity. Such markers likely participate in brain–body communication.” 

She also highlights the real-world impact: “Understanding the mechanisms of brain–body communication is central to understanding brain function in health and disease. These connectors offer significant targets for measuring the state of brain dysfunction—an essential step toward improving health outcomes.” 

Showcasing FutureNeuro’s Strengths 

The contributions from FutureNeuro investigators underline the Centre’s strengths in cutting-edge research and translational potential. Prof Tropea comments: “They show that the FutureNeuro Centre is tackling state-of-the-art research and that its PIs are experts in areas with direct application to brain health.” 

Editing the book offered additional insights: “It was particularly interesting to identify and highlight the connections among systems. Communication occurs not only between the brain and single systems but also across systems in a broadly integrated manner.” 

Looking ahead, she sees brain–body communication as a rapidly growing field where FutureNeuro is well-positioned to lead: “FutureNeuro fosters collaboration across genetics, neuroscience and clinical neurosciences, making it an ideal place to address important questions in brain–body communication.” 

Prof Tropea hopes the book encourages readers to adopt a more integrated view of the brain: “I hope they begin to view the brain as integrated within the body rather than as a stand-alone organ, and that they incorporate this integration into their scientific and clinical approaches.” 

Brain-Body Connections is a brilliant resource for researchers, clinicians, and anyone interested in understanding the complex interactions that underpin brain health and disease.