Philippe Seguela
Professor
Dr. Philippe Seguela is primarily interested in the molecular basis of hyperexcitability in the brain and in sensory pathways. Fast synaptic communication required for pain perception, motor control and memory is mediated by the activation of post-synaptic receptor-channels. Dr. Seguela's team uses a multidisciplinary approach based on recombinant DNA methodology, biochemistry, electrophysiological recordings or calcium imaging in mammalian neurons, transfected cells and the Xenopus oocyte expression system. His laboratory is investigating the functional diversity of recently-discovered excitatory ion channels---the ATP-gated P2X receptors, the proton-gated ASICs and the TRP channels---to understand their contribution to neurological pathologies including chronic pain, epilepsy and stroke.
Ìý
Philippe Séguéla's group uses a multidisciplinary approach based on transgenic mouse models, optogenetics, chemogenetics, calcium imaging, electrophysiology as well as behavioural assays to elucidate the role of major ion channels/pain transducers (ex. ATP-gated P2X receptors, proton-gated ASICs, TRP channels) in somatosensory circuits. The Séguéla laboratoryÌýis investigating the functional organization of genetically identified neuronal networks mediating pain from peripheral afferents in sensory ganglia to the prefrontal cortex. His goal is to understand their contribution to pathological inflammatory and neuropathic states, in search of novel analgesic strategies.
