The perception of internal bodily states, interoception, is essential for survival, emotional balance and decision-making. In humans, it has been shown that impaired interoception promotes mental health conditions such as anxiety and mood disorders. Interoception is monitored by specialized visceral receptors in different regions of the body. In particular, cardiovascular receptors have emerged as a primary source of interoceptive signals.

This translational project investigates neuroanatomical systems involved in the sensing of heart rate, blood pressure and blood composition and their monitoring by the brain. This research aims to provide a sound base for the management of interoceptive dysregulation in patients, in particular those suffering from mental disorders.