Neuropharmacology (NFAR)

Research

Astrocytes and microglia are among the most abundant cells in the central nervous system of mammalian. These cells are essential partners of neurons in both the developing and mature brain and spinal cord. They fulfil several physiological roles, supporting metabolism, signal transduction and the propagation of action potentials in neurons. Glia also participates in the plasticity of the nervous system and ensure protection against potential nervous insults, during lesions, diseases or aging. Of particular interest is the capacity of glial cells to adapt their proliferation, morphology and activity in response to change in their environment. In link with their essential contribution in the nervous system, it is not surprising that alteration in the activity of glial cell can have major consequences on neurons. Hence, both astrocytes and microglial cells have been implicated in the development and progression of several neurological disorders.

Considering our long experience in the study of receptors and transporters for diverse neurotransmitters, our research program focuses on the role of glial cells in the control of the excitatory transmission. We study the regulation of glial glutamate transporters and receptors in the homeostatic control of glutamate in diverse models of nervous disorders. Using in vitro (cell cultures) and in vivo models (rodents) of neuronal insults or neurological disorders, we examine the molecular and functional crosstalk between neuroinflammation and the regulation of glial glutamate handling.

In past studies, our laboratory has been deeply implicated in research on glial dysfunction in rodent models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Presently, our main research topic concerns the study of glutamate transmission in the context of chronic pain. In particular, we have access to models of neuropathic and inflammatory pain in models of nerve lesion, peripheral inflammatory insults and chemotherapies. Spreading from basic molecular research towards the study of cellular and tissular adaptations in nervous insults in rodent models, our research aims at identifying the mechanisms causing the disruption of the physiological control of excitation in pain pathways. This research should help to develop new therapeutic approach for chronic pain, which remains a major health issue.