The laboratory implements a preclinical research in order to (i) develop new tools and procedures for the evaluation of pain, (ii) characterize new pain control systems and antinociceptive drugs and (iii) identify neurophysiological substrates explaining abnormal pain processing

To address these ambitious objectives, research is carried out using a multidisciplinary approach in vitro and in vivo. Projects are placed under the responsibility of 4 principal investigators: Dr Pascal Darbon, Dr Yannick Goumon, Prof François Lasbennes and myself.

Our laboratory is well recognized in the field of cellular electrophysiology and biochemistry. We have a solid expertise in the plasticity of synaptic inhibition and spinal pain processing. Current projects are particularly focused on homeostatic changes associated to pain states in relation with the metabolism of steroids and morphine. We are also conducting experiments to better understand the role of hypothalamospinal descending control using oxytocin as a neuromediator.

Head : Pierrick Poisbeau, Ph.D.
Professor of Neuroscience & Physiology