Symptom Research
Neuroimmunology Laboratories
Robert Dantzer, Ph.D. | Peter Grace, Ph.D. | Yuan Pan, Ph.D. | Andrew J. Shepherd, Ph.D.
Principal Investigators
Areas of Research
- Chemotherapy-Induced Neuropathy
- Chemotherapy-Induced Cognitive Impairments
- Chronic Pain
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Neuron-glia Interactions
The Neuroimmunology Laboratories are led by four well-funded, collaborative principal investigators who share space, equipment, and ideas in a highly interactive, international, research-focused environment. The overall aim of these laboratories is to increase our understanding of the pathophysiology of cancer therapy-induced neurobehavioral toxicities, including neuropathic pain, depressed mood, cognitive dysfunction, and fatigue. This newly acquired knowledge can then be applied to the rational design of novel interventions for alleviating symptom burden in patients with cancer.
Please join us for the next Neurobiology Seminar Series lecture
The Role of a Novel GPCR Family Mrgprs in Itch, Pain, and Innate Immunity
Speaker: Xinzhong Dong, Ph.D.
Professor of Neuroscience, Dermatology, and Neurosurgery
Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine
Wednesday, February 4, 2026 ● 11 a.m.–12 p.m. CST
Zayed Building, Z2.4040 Rooms 2 & 3
Or join us on Zoom
Meeting ID: 986 5252 9161 ● Password: 231560
Xinzhong Dong’s laboratory employs a multidisciplinary approach to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying pain, itch, and neuroimmune interactions. The lab has identified and characterized a novel family of G protein–coupled receptors, the Mas-related G protein–coupled receptors (Mrgprs), which are selectively expressed in primary sensory neurons and innate immune cells and play critical roles in itch, pain, and inflammatory conditions such as stroke. In addition, the laboratory has developed in vivo dorsal root ganglion imaging approaches that enable the discovery of previously unrecognized mechanisms of pain.
The Neurobiology Seminar Series explores cutting-edge research in neurobiology. This series features prominent speakers from MD Anderson and other healthcare research institutions across the world, presenting the latest developments in neuroscience, neuroimmunology, neurotoxicity, and cancer neuroscience.
These seminars are designed for healthcare professionals, researchers, students, and anyone with a keen interest in neurobiology and related fields. Whether you are looking to stay informed about the latest research trends, expand your knowledge, or engage in meaningful discussions with experts, these seminars provide an exceptional opportunity for learning and professional development.
Contact us if you would like to receive updates about future speakers and seminars.