Missions

The project will involve developing innovative antibodies (nanobodies) as new therapeutic agents for schizophrenia. These nanobodies were recently obtained after immunization of llamas by the team directed by Philippe Rondard (IGF). They act as modulators of the metabotropic glutamate receptor mGlu2. They are able to bind with high affinity to both human and mouse mGlu2 receptors.

Activities

The agent will produce and purify these nanobodies from E. coli bacteria. He will measure the properties of these nanobodies in vitro (affinity for mGlu2 and ability to activate mGlu2) using biophysical (HTRF) and molecular pharmacological (inositol-phosphate, calcium) techniques. The agent will then evaluate the effect of these nanobodies in vivo, in two mouse models of schizophrenia: a pharmacological and neurodevelopmental model (PCP treatment), and the genetic model DISC-1-L100P. The nanobodies will be administered to the mice by different injection routes (i.p., i.c.v. and cannulae). The effects of the nanobodies will be measured by various behavioral tests (NOR, Y-maze, PPI). After these behavioral experiments, the brains of the mice will be analyzed by immunohistochemistry experiments (HRP, fluorescence).

Skills

This position requires the agent to have a PhD in the field of neuroscience, with good expertise in biochemistry. The candidate must have published several original articles as first author, which will ensure a good ability to develop and finalize a research project. Autonomy is essential. Finally, the candidate must be able to communicate in English, both orally and in writing.

Work Context

The Institut of Functional Genomics (IGF) is a multidisciplinary CNRS-INSERM-Université de Montpellier Joint Research Unit with research programs in neuroscience, physiology and cancer biology. The IGF is home to some 250 people - researchers, teacher-researchers, engineers, technicians, post-docs and students - spread across 23 research teams, 5 technology platforms and research support services. The candidate will work under the supervision of Dr. Jean-Philippe Pin and Dr. Philippe Rondard within the EIDOS collaborative team established between the IGF and Cisbio, and the IGF “Neuroreceptors, dynamics and functions” team.

Constraints and risks

Normal working hours Monday to Friday. Evenings and weekends may be required depending on handling needs. In particular, work with animals (visit animals somme weekends to carry out experiments and/or ensure the well-being of the animals).