WELCOME
The Institute of Functional Genomics (IGF) is a multidisciplinary research centre which is developing a project focused on the functional genomics of physiological and pathological cellular communications in the fields of neurobiology, endocrinology, oncology and cardiology.
This project is based on a multi-scale strategy from 'molecule to systems' and combines structural, biochemical, genetic, epigenetic, omics, physiological and behavioural studies. A major effort is paid to the development of single-cell studies through multiple dimensions and multi-omic approaches, that are necessary to address the complexity of life.
The project of IGF is increasingly based on translational research, promoted by the recruitment of teams of clinicians from different fields (neurovascular, diabetology, neuro-oncology and psychiatry). The objective is to identify new mechanisms and concepts in the field of cellular communications, in order to develop new therapeutic strategies and diagnostic tools.
INNOVATIVE THERAPEUTICS FOR DIABETES: UNDERSTANDING AND CORRECTION OF INSULIN SECRETION DYSFUNCTION AND LOSS
Department : Physiology and Cancer
Research subject
Pancreatic β cells are the only cell type capable of synthesizing and secreting insulin. While autoimmune mechanisms lead to the loss of b cells in type 1 diabetes, the mechanisms involved in type 2 diabetes are multiple and complex resulting in a lack of insulin secretion and a reduction in β cell mass. Our research projects propose to develop innovative automated insulin delivery systems in order to optimize the supply of insulin, to improve the transplantation of pancreatic islets and to define new targets and therapeutic strategies to prevent the b cell dysfunction and death.
1- Development of automated insulin therapy combining an insulin pump, continuous glucose measurement and control algorithms according to a predictive model ("artificial pancreas") for the therapy of type 1 diabetes.
2- Evaluation of the safety and efficacy of pancreatic islet transplantation in the therapy of insulinopenic diabetes.
3- Development and evaluation of metabolic surgery in diabetes therapy (surgical team of Prof. David Nocca).
4- Better understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms controlling the function and survival of pancreatic β cells.
5- Study of the deleterious effects of diabetogenic conditions (high calorie diets rich in fat, chronic hyperglycemia, inflammation) on the secretion and survival of pancreatic β cells.
6- Evaluation of the effectiveness of future drug combinations to preserve insulin secretion. Identification of new therapeutic strategies in order to restore and/or preserve a functional mass of pancreatic β cells in patients with diabetes.
Islet of Langerhans and pancreatic beta cells
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BRAIN PLASTICITY, STEM CELLS AND DIFFUSE LOW-GRADE GLIOMAS
Department : Physiology and Cancer
Research subject
The brain shows several levels of plasticity: cellular, structural and functional. Our team composed of clinicians and researchers studies these plasticities, particularly during the development of gliomas. These are infiltrating brain tumours affecting 25,000 people per year in Europe. Our research aims to improve the diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of these tumours, notably by identifying new therapeutic targets.
1 - Human brain connectome: mapping, plasticity and meta-networks (H DUFFAU, S MORITZ-GASSER, G HERBET)
We are exploring the human brain connectome, including the neural bases underlying movement, language, cognitive and emotional functions, non-verbal communication and their capacity for reorganization in gliomas. We are developing meta-network models of brain information processing, based on the dynamic interactions between neural networks. We use multimodal approaches, especially during awake surgery: behaviour, neurophysiology and neuroimaging, and their modulation before and after glioma removal. This allows us to establish an original link between neuro-oncology and cognitive neuroscience.
2 - Cellular heterogeneity in gliomas (JP HUGNOT, V RIGAU)
Gliomas show a high degree of cellular heterogeneity. We are studying the origin of this cell diversity along 3 axes: 1-the role of signalling pathways (Notch, BMP and Hippo/YAP), 2-the role of interactions between tumour cells and the tumoral environment (neurons, mesenchymal cells, vessels, immune cells), 3-the formation of cancer stem cells and transformation foci. We use primary cultures from patient resections as well as multi-omics and dynamic approaches (videomicroscopy)
3 - Neural stem cells of the adult nervous system (JP HUGNOT, L BAUCHET)
In a non-tumor context, we are studying the processes controlling the maintenance and differentiation of neural stem cells and oligodendrocyte progenitors (OPCs) in the niches and the parenchyma, particularly in the spinal cord. We use mouse models and human tissues.
4 - Metabolic and genetic bases of glioma dissemination and treatment resistance (C GOZE, A DARLIX, ML VIGNAIS)
We are studying the genetic basis and metabolic modifications (mitochondrial transfer through nanotubes) occurring during 1-the progression from low-grade gliomas to high-grade gliomas (glioblastomas) and 2-the acquisition of resistance to treatments. Thanks to a large cohort of patients, we study cases with a remarkable clinical course.
5 - Epidemiology of gliomas (L BAUCHET)
We have established and coordinated the French Brain Tumour Database (FBTDB), one of the largest of this type in Europe. This database provides a better understanding of the incidence rate, prevalence and survival of gliomas in France and allows identification of potential risk factors.
Funding: ANR, ARC, La Ligue, ARTC SUD, AFM
Exploring brain plasticity: from connectome to stem cells
Left: MRI image of white matter tracts. Right: heterogenous neurosphere derived from stem cells in glioma (red)
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IGF
Institut de Génomique Fonctionnelle
141, rue de la Cardonille
34094 Montpellier cedex 5
CNRS UMR 5203
Inserm U1191
Université de Montpellier
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