Axis 2: Neuro-immuno-endocrino-pharmacology

The central and peripheral nervous systems, the endocrine system, and the immune system interact to adapt the host's immune, metabolic, and behavioral responses to its environment. Several levels of integration of these interactions are required: from the molecule to the complete organism, including the organelle, the cell, and the organ, as well as inter-organ communication. These interactions are modulated both by the host's genetics and by several facets of its environment: biological (pathogens, gut microbiota, inflammation), chemical (anoxia, carcinogens, endocrine disruptors, diet), and physical and social (living environment). Dysregulation of these interactions can contribute to the emergence of pathologies such as mental illnesses (depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, autism), strokes, infectious and autoimmune diseases (COVID-19, arthritis, type 1 diabetes), metabolic disorders (obesity, type 2 diabetes), and cancers. Therapeutic interventions, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological, targeting these different systems can help prevent, mitigate, or delay these diseases.

Research Axis 2 brings together researchers, engineers, and technicians from various disciplines (immunology, neuroimmunology, neurobiology, oncoimmunology, endocrinology, biochemistry, metabolism, and biostatistics). In synergy with the institute's technical platforms and other research axes, we develop translational projects combining preclinical studies (animal models, cell models, organoids) and clinical studies (patient or general population cohorts) to better understand the pathophysiology and mechanisms associated with diseases. A research component of Axis 2 also focuses on the identification of biomarkers, therapeutic targets, and innovative therapies. These therapies are based on pharmacological interventions, as well as interventions using bioelectronic medicine, environmental enrichment, and microbiota manipulation.