Studies of the development of neuronal circuits in the nervous system

Team research topics:
 We are involved in a number of national and international initiatives aimed at applying modern techniques to the study of the human embryo in order to gain a better understanding of the origins of developmental diseases. For example, we are taking part in HuDeCA (Human Developmental Cell Atlas), a multi-year project initiated by Inserm to create a reference atlas of human embryonic and foetal cell types. One of our aims is to combine and integrate multiple technologies to establish the characteristics of cells in embryonic organs. Our team has developed an innovative 3D imaging method that makes it possible to visualise cells in organs that have been made transparent, using a microscope known as a light sheet microscope, which scans tissues using lasers. We recently published the first atlas of the development of the human head, and in particular the muscles that move the eyes.

We are working on a limited number of models (retina, corneal nerves, pre-cerebellar neurons, commissural neurons). We are trying to understand how the cell layers in the retina are organised and how commissural axons can interconnect the two halves of the brain. To answer these questions, we use various animal models (birds, fish, rodents, etc.). We are trying to develop therapeutic tools to regenerate the cornea and the optic nerve.

Main techniques used:

Light sheet microscopy, confocal microscopy, 3D Imaging, image analysis, virtual reality, deep learning, tissue clearing, neuroanatomy, transcriptomics, animal models (mice, fish, etc.), cell culture, proteomics, etc.

Address :
17 Rue Moreau, 75012, Paris

Team leader :
Alain Chedotal
Name of co-team leader :

Administrative Contact Name :
Dominique Santiard-Baron

Website : Cliquez ici
Key words : #Développement #embryon #evolution #système #visuel #Imagerie #Development #embryo #evolution #visual #system #Imaging