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)