François Georges et al. in Advanced Science

VIP on alert: the neurons that sound the alarm when danger strikes

Source : CNRS

When faced with a threat, the brain must react quickly: flee, freeze, or defend itself. VIP neurons located in the medulla oblongata act as an internal alarm system. Published in Advanced Science, research using a visual looming test, simulating the approach of an aerial predator, has shown that VIP neurons detect danger and trigger flight. Understanding this “alert circuit” could open up new perspectives for deciphering the mechanisms of non-motor disorders associated with neurodegenerative diseases.

For more

Guillaumin A, Perrot E, Dhellemmes T, Boi L, De Castro Medeiros D, Glangetas C, Dumas S, Dovero S, Biendon N, Ladeveze E, Hardel M, Landry M, Bezard E, Baufreton J, Fisone G, Georges F.
Dorsal Raphe VIP Neurons Are Critical for Survival-Oriented Vigilance. Adv Sci (Weinh).
2026 Jan 25:e23809.
doi: 10.1002/advs.202523809.
Epub ahead of print. PMID: 41580986.

Contact

François Georges
Directeur de recherche CNRS (IMN)
05 33 51 48 13