The Department of Neuroscience investigates the organization and function of the central nervous system across multiple scales, from molecules to behavior. We seek to understand how the brain works both through its functional characteristics and by elucidating its interactions with other systems including the microbiota and immune system. Our work provides a fundamental basis for accelerating translational research focused on the mechanisms, pathophysiology and clinical implications of psychiatric disorders (autism spectrum disorder, dyslexia, addiction, mood disorders) and neurological disorders (neurodegenerative diseases), which present developed countries with a plethora of major health challenges.
Our main recent publications
Gut microbiota involved in depressive disorders
The link between a healthy mind and healthy microbiota has already been established. This study demonstrates that the gut's bacterial population exhibits a specific profile in cases of depression. When this bacterial population is transferred to healthy mice, they show all the signs of depression within a few days. What mechanism is at work here? This study reveals that the body's longest nerve, the vagus nerve, plays an essential role in direct communication between the gut microbiota and brain.
Molecular Psychiatry, May 2, 2023.
Genetic variants implicated in autism detected in the general population
Autism is a clinically and genetically heterogeneous condition, characterized by atypical social communication and restricted or repetitive interests. Investigating 185 genes robustly associated with autism, this study indicates that genetic variants associated with autism can be identified in 1% of undiagnosed individuals, suggesting that genetic and environmental contexts play a crucial role in autism.
Nature Medicine, June 26, 2023.
A mechanism to stimulate and target nicotinic receptors
A specific class of nicotinic receptors in the brain is involved in higher cognitive functions such as memory and executive functions, which are impaired by diseases such as schizophrenia and Alzheimer's disease. This study describes the mechanism of action of molecules that not only effectively stimulate these nicotinic receptors, but also precisely target them. These agents with therapeutic potential are alpaca single-chain antibodies.
Nature Communications, September 25, 2023.
A novel target for Alzheimer medication
The hippocampus, important for memory formation, is a critical structure affected in Alzheimer's. The study shows that blocking nicotinic receptors normalizes memory function. This was followed by recording directly from the hippocampus. The underlying mechanism involves a modulation of the generation of newborn neurons in the structure.
Molecular Psychiatry, August 20, 2024.
Agrochemicals amplified by global warming affect insects
A study of 1,024 agrochemicals found 57% affected fruit fly behavior at sublethal doses. Combined at field-realistic levels, these chemicals disrupted development, behavior, and reproduction. Effects worsened with temperature increases. This research creates new pathways linking environment, behavior and genetics.
Science, October 24, 2024.