Séminaire Oriane Mauger "Exploring the RNA basis of memory"

Abstract

Memory is a major cognitive function that is affected by a wide range of conditions beyond neurodegenerative diseases. Mental disorders such as anxiety, depression and associated symptoms like insomnia, can significantly impact memory function.

The goal of our research is to unravel the molecular basis of memory and bring new tracks for therapeutic strategies. In our recent work, we discovered that RNA processing is crucial for memory consolidation. This breakthrough finding is particularly significant considering that RNA has emerged as a privileged target for therapeutic interventions in neurological disorders, placing RNA regulation at the forefront of translational research into memory deficits. To leverage this discovery and decipher RNA programs activated during memory consolidation, we use single molecule imaging approaches and -omics technologies. In addition, we are actively developing an array of new molecular tools to manipulate these RNA regulations with the ultimate goal of modulating memory performance and fighting memory deficits in mouse model of anxiety, depression and sleep deprivation.

Biosketch

Oriane received her PhD in Molecular Biology from the Pasteur Institute, Paris (Christian Muchardt group, supervised by Dr. Eric Allemand and Dr. Eric Batsché) where she investigated the interplay between gene expression pathways, specifically alternative splicing and epigenetic regulation. Transitioning her expertise to neuroscience for her postdoctoral studies at the Biozentrum of the University of Basel (Peter Scheiffele group), she explored the regulation of gene expression in response to neuronal stimulation. With a career development award, she then started a semi-independent position where she started exploring the role of RNA processing in learning and memory, a theme she continue exploring in her group at the MPI of Psychiatry.