Our research group propose an approach based on integrative physiology, metabolism and nutrition, in order to investigate the role of the gut microbiota in the development of metabolic disorders associated with obesity (metabolic inflammation, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases), malnutrition (cachexia associated with tumor development, nutrient deficiencies, ageing, alcohol consumption....) or changes in cellular homeostasis leading to cancer (e.g. tumor development).
Our scientific activities are mostly focusing on nutrients targeting the gut microbiota, such as carbohydrates which escape the digestion and which are largely fermented in the colon by specific bacteria -called prebiotics- as well as to understand the molecular mechanisms linking gut microbes to the host metabolism. The development of functional food targeting the gut appears as an interesting way to modulate key metabolic functions in the body, in order to improve health and well-being.
One main issue is to characterize the impact of nutrition and diseases on specific molecular targets such as gut endocrine and barrier functions, the endocannabinoid system, the innate immune system in the control of body weight, fat mass, systemic immunity and energy homeostasis. Our purpose is to elucidate the contribution of the the gut microbiota in the control of those systems.