Molecular mechanisms in neurodegenerative dementias - MMDN, UMR 1198
The MMDN "Molecular Mechanisms in Neurodegenerative Dementia" laboratory is an interdisciplinary research unit focused on aging and neurodegenerative diseases, ranging from cellular studies to clinical applications in humans. Our goal is to understand the molecular mechanisms involved in neurodegenerative pathologies in order to develop innovative markers and therapies.
The research projects developed by the various groups aim to:
- Study the mechanisms of aging and neurotoxicity, from the cell to the human. The laboratory explores the pathophysiological processes linked to aging, neurodegenerative diseases, and certain genetic disorders. It adopts a multidisciplinary and multi-model approach, ranging from cell cultures to behavioral studies in animals and humans.
- Design and develop animal models. To better understand the early and chronic stages of neurodegenerative diseases, the laboratory uses and creates various complementary models, both in vitro (cell cultures) and in vivo (Drosophila, zebrafish, mice, rats, and primates).
- Define innovative therapeutic strategies. Drawing on its expertise in certain key targets involved in pathophysiological processes, the laboratory develops and validates pharmacological therapeutic strategies (small molecules or peptides) or gene therapy. These projects are carried out in close collaboration with transfer and development agencies, industrial partners, and hospital departments.
Director: Tangui Maurice
Deputy Director: Nadine Mestre Frances
Unit website: https://mmdn.umontpellier.fr/en/
