Using genetically modified mouse lines and anterograde, retrograde and transsynaptic viral tools, we access defined subtypes of brainstem descending neurons

Our team is interested in the neural circuits that allow us to move. In particular, we are studying the organization of the so-called "descending" neural pathways, which form the vital link between the brainstem and the spinal cord. On healthy animals, our research aims to decipher the diversity and specialization of brainstem descending neurons, notably based on their efferent and afferent connectivity, on their function in the control of unitary motor components, and on their genetic and molecular signatures. In experimental models of spinal cord injury, where descending neural pathways are interrupted, we characterize, and even attempt to promote, the plasticity and function of reticulospinal neurons, altogether aiming for improving the recovery of motor autonomy.

Using genetically modified mouse lines and anterograde, retrograde and transsynaptic viral tools, we access defined subtypes of brainstem descending neurons to

1) reconstruct their connectivity by volumetric histology,

2) detect and manipulate their activity by optogenetics and calcium imaging,

3) characterize their function by kinematic analysis of movement on freely-moving animals, and

4) analyzing their transcriptome by single cell sequencing.

Address :
Institut des Neurosciences Paris-Saclay (NeuroPSI) Université Paris-Saclay / CNRS Centre CEA Paris-Saclay - Bât. 151 91400 Saclay, France

Team leader :
Julien Bouvier
Name of co-team leader :

Administrative Contact Name :


Website : Cliquez ici
Key words : #Moelle #épinière #tronc #cérébral #connectomique #optogénétique #contrôle #moteur #Spinal #cord #brainstem; #connectomics #optogenetics #motor #control