Lallemend

Biography

Our lab is interested in understanding how different populations of neurons diversify and assembly into interconnected, functional circuits that control our behavior. We use the motor circuits as a model. They consist of three main, distinct components that are organized in an exquisite tridimensional neural network which controls motor behavior. These include spinal neurons, supraspinal centers and the sensory feedbacks provided by proprioceptive sensory neurons (PSNs). Although PSNs are essential for coordinated motor output, our knowledge of their development, integration into motor circuits and physiological properties remains elusive. Also, PSNs develop within a highly heterogeneous population of sensory neurons, must project peripherally within the growing limbs and establish precise central contacts with interneurons or motor neurons in different laminae of the spinal cord. They are therefore an excellent context in which to explore the relationships between neuron fate, axon growth, target-derived signals, synaptic connectivity and cell physiology. We use in the lab multidisciplinary approaches including advanced mouse genetics, cell/molecular biology and advanced genomics to investigate the fundamental molecular processes underlying the assembly of the sensory-motor circuits and the general principles that control the spatio-temporal regulation of neuronal specification.

Research Interest

Neuroscience