Team 5 : Neuroinflammation, mechanisms, therapeutic options (NEMO)

Team 5 leaders: Pr. David Laplaud & Dr. Laureline Berthelot

Research program

Team 5 focuses on the immune mechanisms underlying autoimmune demyelinating diseases of the central nervous system, studying the pathophysiology and treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD). Our current research program aims at improving MS management, deciphering the immunopthology of MS linked to genetics. The developed research makes use of national biobanks (OFSEP) and collaborations with reputed national and international laboratories (IMSGC).
We particularly focus our fundamental research on CD8+ T cells and B cells in MS pathology, deciphering which subpopulations are involved and how they can be specifically targeted. In our research program, studies on antibody specificity linked to microbiota dysbiosis are developed. We also study the role of glial cell and antigen reactivity. Translational, genetic and clinical studies on MS and NMO complete the NEMO panel of research. We have access to and exhaustive biobank of MS patient samples (serum, saliva, LCS, stools, colon and brain sections, DNA collection: RefGenSEP). Animal models of MS (mice and rats) are also used to decipher pathological mechanisms and to test potential treatment as proof of concept.