Focused ultrasound neurostimulation for chronic pain treatment

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CITY

COUNTRY

France

DETAILS OF THE OFFER

Working place: Marseille Institute of Developmental Biology

Missions:

The first objective of the Centuri PhD project is to explore the US-induced stimulation of C-LTMRs in mice in vivo. Following our previous in vitro demonstration that C-LTMRs are sensitive to US stimulation, we propose to stimulate skin in mice in vivo and identify the sensory pathways triggered by US stimuli using optical imaging techniques (multi-photon microscopy and/or photoacoustic tomography). The second objective will be to understand the physical mechanisms by which US activate C-LTMRs by developing an in vitro device for measuring the effects of focused US on 3D neuronal cell models.

This project will combine the strengths of three Centuri laboratories at the interface of physics and biology with complementary skills: the LMA with an expertise in ultrasonic imaging and neurostimulation, the IBDM in molecular biology of mechanosensory neurons and the Fresnel Institute in optical imaging of neuronal activity.

The LMA (Franceschini group) is developing experimental approaches and applying physical concepts to achieve a quantitative understanding of physical mechanisms of US-induced neurostimulation. The IBDM (Moqrich group) is expert in the functional significance of primary sensory neurons in chronic pain, who will contribute to the understanding of molecular mechanisms and of sensory pathways triggered by US stimuli. The Fresnel institute (Rigneault – Chaigne group) is developing advanced optical neuroimaging techniques, enabling in vivo monitoring of neuronal activity by using multi-photon microscopy and/or photoacoustics.

Qualifications:

The PhD candidate should hold a MSc (or equivalent degree) in physics, biophysics, acoustics, molecular or cellular biology, neurosciences or a related discipline. We aim to find a highly-motivated student with creative skills and appeal for experimental work. Ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment involving several research teams will be required. Some good English language skills and profusion in data analysis using, e.g. Matlab, will be a strong plus.

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