The MITIC laboratory (Inflammatory Myopathies and Innovative Targeted Treatments) headed by Y Allenbach and O Benveniste is a leading laboratory in the field of inflammatory myopathies combining complementary expertise in the care of those patients, biobanking, biostatistics, omics and cell culture. Our laboratory is located at the Myology Research Centre, a renowned institution dedicated to basic and translational understanding of neuromuscular diseases. The MITIC team has a direct access to the reference center at the hospital (same campus) for the care of myositis patients with its database and biobank. The campus of Sorbonne University and Pitie Salpetriere Hospital offer a dynamic environment with state-of-the art facilities and platforms...
Inflammatory Myopathies are a group of rare diseases with different subtypes. The physiopathogenesis of the different subgroups is investigated, notably by our team. Our aim today is to look at the interrelation between inflammation and the muscle tissue. For that, we are setting up different experimental skills: (1) a 3D bioengineered skeletal muscle tissue (organoid) using different primary or immortalized muscle cell line from healthy donors, myositis or dystrophic patients. Bioengineered muscle tissues are contractile and respond to electrical and chemical stimulation; (2) an in vitro model using Flexcell® voltage systems. This technology applies mechanical tension to cells grown on flexible bottom culture plates. By modifying the frequencies and strength of the mechanical stimulus, we can mimic the muscle environment in vivo. We aim to test the effect of different cytokines (e.g. IFN) or coculture with macrophages on the biomechanical properties of these muscle tissues. Furthermore, we aim to test potential therapeutic compounds.
Candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant subject (immunology, molecular biology, cell biology, neuroscience or genetics). They must have received good training in cell biology and cell culture. Knowledge of neurobiology or immunology is desirable. The successful candidate is expected to be highly motivated, well-organised, have excellent communication skills, a high level of accuracy in all aspects of work and the ability to contribute to a multidisciplinary project and research group with insight and enthusiasm. He/She will (1) provide input into decisions on experimental approaches and techniques, (2) keep up to date with current developments in the field, (3) collaborate with other members of the team, Centre and liaise with external collaborators; (4) take a lead in the presentation of results and paper writing. Good knowledge in the English language is essential.
The first part of the project is to develop an in vitro 3D culture model. This model of muscle cell culture can lead to the study of immune cell interactions – muscle cells in conditions closer to physiological conditions. This part of the project was initiated by a collaboration with Dr Penney Gilbert’s team. The technique was imported into the team and is currently developed and optimized by Bérénice Tendrel, engineer, within the team in collaboration with the Pierre Gilles de Gennes Institute.
The second part of the project is to be developed and will focus on the study of the impact of mechanical stresses on the polarization of macrophages co-cultivated with muscle cells on Flexcell® voltage systems. For this, we plan to evaluate functionally the impact of tension on the transcriptomic profile of macrophages and muscle cells (10X Genomics).
Applications in English should include a cover letter, a detailed CV and the contact details of a least one academic reference. Applications and informal inquiries should be emailed to Olivier Benveniste.
