Neuroinflammation – Expertise

Microglia

Our platform has an in-depth knowledge in microglia homeostasis and reactivity. We provide in vivo analysis, following magnetic cell sorting using appropriate antibodies (CD11B, CD11B/C, P2RY12) from mouse or rat brain, in healthy or pathological condition, from birth to adulthood. This technology, which is currently the reference for cell sorting, is compatible with all the applications offered by our platform :

• Cytokine and chemokine large-scale analysis (Luminex©)
• Transcriptome and epigenome analysis (RT-qPCR, RNA-sequencing, ATAC-sequencing)
• Specific analysis of protein expression changes
• Reactive oxygen species releasing

We also provide an analysis of in vitro inflammatory processes, using microglia primary culture. Bokobza et al., 2022 Jove Journal : DOI: 10.3791/62964. After modulating different molecular targets (using pharmacological drugs or interfering ARN transfection), our platform offers a complete analysis of microglia reactivity :

• Phenotype analysis (RT-qPCR, immunocytochemistry) and cytokine/chemokine analysis (Luminex©)
• Specific analysis of gene and protein expression changes

We have also developed flow cytometry studies in order to analyze microglia cells sub-populations.

Moreover, we have a genetically-modified mouse model in which CNS-associated macrophages and microglia cells express GFP and peripheral macrophages express RFP (CX3CR1-GFP/CCR2-RFP knock-in mice). Those mice enable morphologic studies, using microscopy, of CNS-associated macrophages/microglia reactivity as well as macrophage infiltration in the nervous system.

Astrocytes and Oligodendrocytes

Similar to microglia, we are offering in vivo analyses of astrocyte and oligodendrocyte, following magnetic cell sorting with specific antibodies: ACSA-1 and ACSA-2 for astrocytes and PDGFR∝ and O4 for oligodendrocytes.
We are also able to perform in vitro analyses, using primary astrocytes or oligodendrocytes culture.

Neutrophils and Macrophages

We are also capable of studying and quantifying peripheral immune cell infiltration in the brain, using flow cytometry.

Neuroprotection

We also have a strong expertise in the analysis of neuroprotective properties of molecules or candidate compounds. Indeed, we are able to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect (on microglia and astrocyte) and neuroprotective properties (on oligodendrocytes and neurons) in vivo in many experimental models of neurological pathologies.