Team Hugues DUFFAU – Jean-Philippe HUGNOT

1 – Human brain connectome: mapping, plasticity and meta-networks (H DUFFAU,S MORITZ-GASSER, S NG)
We are exploring the human brain connectome, including the neural bases underlying movement, language, cognitive and emotional functions, non-verbal communication and their capacity for reorganization in gliomas. We are developing meta-network models of brain information processing, based on the dynamic interactions between neural networks. We use multimodal approaches, especially during awake surgery: behaviour, neurophysiology and neuroimaging, and their modulation before and after glioma removal. This allows us to establish an original link between neuro-oncology and cognitive neuroscience.

2 – Molecular/cellular heterogeneity and progression of low-grade diffuse gliomas (JP HUGNOT, C GOZE, V RIGAU)
Gliomas exhibit cellular heterogeneity, the origin of which we study along 3 axes: 1-the role of signaling pathways and GPCR receptors, 2-the role of tumor cell interaction with surrounding cells (neurons, oligodendrocytes, vessels, immune cells), 3-the formation of cancer stem cells and transformation foci. We use primary patient resection cultures as well as multi-omics (scRNA seq, …) and dynamic (video microscopy) approaches.

3 – Neural stem cells in the spinal cord (JP HUGNOT, L BAUCHET)
In a non-tumoral context, we study the processes that control the maintenance and differentiation of neural stem cells and oligodendrocyte progenitors (OPCs) in niches and parenchyma, in particular in the spinal cord. We use mouse models as well as human tissues.

4 – Effects of intercellular mitochondria transfers from the tumor microenvironment on glioblastoma progression (ML VIGNAIS, V RIGAU, C GOZE, A DARLIX, H DUFFAU, L BAUCHET)
We are studying the genetic basis and metabolic modifications (mitochondrial transfer through nanotubes) occurring during 1-the progression from low-grade gliomas to high-grade gliomas (glioblastomas) and 2-the acquisition of resistance to treatments. Thanks to a large cohort of patients, we study cases with a remarkable clinical course.

5 – Biomarkers for Diffuse Low-Grade Gliomas (A DARLIX, JP HUGNOT)
Our goal is to discover diagnostic, prognostic, and treatment response markers for diffuse low-grade gliomas. We focus on studying the epitranscriptome as well as genetic and epigenetic abnormalities to better understand these brain tumors. Our research aims to identify specific molecular signatures that will improve early diagnosis, refine predictions of disease progression, and personalize therapeutic strategies.

6 – Epidemiology of gliomas (L BAUCHET)
We have established and coordinated the French Brain Tumour Database (FBTDB), one of the largest of this type in Europe. This database provides a better understanding of the incidence rate, prevalence and survival of gliomas in France and allows identification of potential risk factors.

7 -Meningiomas (J BOETTO)
Meningiomas, the most common intracranial tumors, represent a challenge due to the morbidity associated with their symptoms and treatment. Our team is dedicated to the search for markers to define prognosis and develop targeted treatments, with projects focusing on prognostic markers detectable in serum.

Studying brain plasticity: from connectome to stem cells
Left: white matter bundles on MRI – Right: neurosphere from a glioma stem cell (green arrow)