NEURRIT

Séverine Morisset-Lopez Team leader Meet the team

Our research aims to elucidate the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying neurological disorders—including multiple sclerosis, gliomas, and chronic pain—as well as psychiatric and addictive disorders. Our ultimate goal is to identify novel therapeutic targets and innovative biomarkers.

We develop and apply bioluminescence-based biophysical screening approaches, including RILES systems, nanoBRET, and complementation assays. These cutting-edge tools allow us to investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of therapeutic target expression and function, with a particular focus on membrane receptors, especially the serotonin 5-HT7 receptor, and microRNAs.

Our research is based on a multiple scales of analysis, from the screening of novel ligands (natural or synthetic small molecules and antibody fragments) to the detailed study of molecular mechanisms involving cell signaling and intracellular trafficking. This work extends to preclinical studies using models of demyelination, inflammatory pain, and neuropathic pain.

The team is also strongly engaged in translational research. In collaboration with regional partners in the Centre-Val de Loire area, we investigate the impact of sleep disorders and addictions on mental health and explore innovative pharmacological therapeutic strategies.

Our research is structured around three main research axes:

Axis 1: Neurobiology of the 5-HT7 receptor: signaling and pathophysiology

Axis Leader: Dr. Séverine Morisset-Lopez – CNRS Research Director

Axis 2: Pharmacotherapy in Psychiatry and Addictology

Axis Leader: Prof. Raphaël Serreau – University Professor–Hospital Practitioner, University Hospital, EPSM

Axis 3: microRNAs: condensate dynamics and potential disease biomarkers

Axis Leader: Dr. Patrick Baril – Associate Professor, University of Orléans