Mitochondrial Cell Biology and Pharmacology

The team’s goal is to deepen our understanding of glioblastoma by studying the mechanisms underlying the interaction between mitochondria and the nucleus in order to identify new therapeutic approaches.

The team is studying the mechanisms governing retrograde mitochondria-nucleus communication, which contributes to oncogenesis, tumor aggressiveness, and resistance to treatment. Particular attention is given to the molecular determinants of this communication, notably the formation of mitochondrial-nuclear contact sites known as “Nucleus-Associated Mitochondria” (NAM) in glioblastoma.

This recent discovery is proposed as a means of shedding light on cell growth and metabolic characteristics induced by defective mitochondria-nucleus communication. The research aims to characterize the function of NAMs in order to understand the hierarchy of pathological events and to identify new predictive factors and therapeutic targets.

Determined to rapidly translate scientific discoveries into benefits for patients, the team is developing its research strategy in collaboration with clinicians.