Units

Laboratory for Functional Anatomy

Research in macroscopic and microscopic anatomy, from a descriptive, functional and palpatory point of view.  
Research in biomechanics (1) spatial electrogoniometry applied in vivo and in vitro, (2) evaluation of lumbar or cervical spine kinematics under normal and clinical conditions (disc herniation, Whiplash Syndrome, evaluation of the kinematics and effect of certain manipulation techniques), (3) three-dimensional imaging and kinematic analysis, musculoskeletal modelling, (4) functional anatomy of the wrist, (5) gait analysis, (6) analysis of spinal curvatures and posture.
Research in neurobiomechanics.

Laboratory of Experimental Neurosurgery

The group is composed of 1 MD, phD (Marc Levivier), 2 MD (Florence Lefranc, Alphonse Lubansu), 1 PhD (Liliane Tenenbaum), 2 PhD students (Abdel Chtarto, Enni Lehtonen), 1 Master Student and 1 Technician (Catherine Melas) working in close collaboration with the Laboratory of Molecular Oncology and Gene Transfer (Prof. T. Velu). The group is exploring novel therapeutic approaches for Parkinson's and Huntington's diseases: I) ex vivo gene delivery to fetal nervous tissue used for cell replacement therapy by means of adeno-associated viruses (AAV)-based vectors. AAV vectors particulary efficient to transfer genes in human embryonic mesencephalon will be used to improve the survival of the transplanted cells of GDNF (glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor) gene promoting dopaminergic neuron survival, into the embryonic mesencephalon prior to transplantation. II) in vivo gene delivery in the basal ganglia. Current AAV vectors transfer genes in the striatum at low efficiency. III) Study of the limiting steps in AAV-mediated gene transfer and development of improved vectors. IV) AAV vectors carrying tetracyclin-inducible promoter to modulate gene expression (ex vivo and in vivo) in the brain.

Projetcs

Posture, gait and motion analysis in subjects with low back pain

Chronic low back pain is a symptom often encountered throughout the world, and it has a considerable impact on society. When confronted with it, sufferers may adopt a behaviour that consists of avoiding any movement that could exacerbate the pain. This can lead to a vicious circle of fear, immobility and pain. This has a negative impact on rehabilitation, quality of life and morale. A wide range of therapeutic approaches can be used, including medication, manipulation, massage, physical activity, relaxation, biopsychosocial approaches and surgery, including lumbar arthrodesis, to reduce long-term pain. 
The contribution of functional analysis (statics, posture, movement, walking) to the development, diagnosis and therapeutic monitoring of patients suffering from low back pain is promising, but clinical studies supporting its relevance are rare. With our study, we aim to help verify the clinical relevance of functional analysis by studying the static (spinal curvatures, posture) and dynamic (movement and walking) differences that we might encounter in people with lumbar arthrodesis compared with asymptomatic people, and to better understand the role of functional assessment and optimise its use in clinical practice.