It is commonly said that childhood experiences shape adult behaviour; that events that we may not even remember can have long-lasting, maybe even permanent effects.

The immune system protects us from attack by pathogens. Scientists have recently discovered that on some occasions the nervous system also informs the defences about infections that exist in the organism.

This dialogue between neurons and defences, known as the neuroimmune system, regulates the proper functioning of organs and protects us from illnesses, many of which have neither a clear cause nor effective treatment.

From Arctic adventurers to supermarket shoppers, we all need to explore a new environment now and then. And the ability to scout out a locale, to find food and other resources, is key to survival in the wild.

New research described here investigates a neural mechanism that helps mice find their way around – and reveals the surprising role of a brain region usually associated with fear.

Based on UAlg’s groundbreaking medical program, which employs a problem-based learning approach, the “Fundamentals of Medicine Course” will provide a select group of scientists from the Champalimaud’s basic research program a strong foundation on the principles of human physiology, pathology and medicine. This course is integrated in the Champalimaud Foundation’s mission to bring science & clinical practice together to both advance translational research and directly improve the lives of patients.