Four connected levels of research, from patient cohorts to experimental models and interventional trials.
01 Observational research
Building on the Maine-Anjou AAV-GN Registry and on retrospective and prospective patient cohorts, we use real-world data to describe the natural history of ANCA-associated vasculitis and immune-mediated glomerulonephritis: clinical presentation, prognostic factors, treatment strategies in routine care, and long-term renal and patient outcomes. We also investigate outcomes after kidney transplantation.
02 Translational research
Dedicated biobanks link blood, urine and kidney tissue samples to deeply annotated clinical phenotypes. Through omics and multi-omics approaches, including bulk and spatial transcriptomics combined with digital pathology of kidney biopsies, we investigate the mechanisms of these diseases and search for new biomarkers, biological signatures and candidate therapeutic targets.
03 Experimental research
To test experimentally the mechanisms suggested by patient data, such as complement activation and type I interferon signaling, the team is progressively developing in vitro assays and in vivo models, including murine models of vasculitis. This work is embedded in Team 4 of the CRCI²NA and builds on the long-standing experimental immunology expertise of the laboratory, a strong foundation for this growing branch of our research.
04 Interventional research
The team takes part in academic (through the FVSG network) and industry-sponsored interventional studies, including phase II and phase III clinical trials.
We also design and lead our own projects. REMVAS, for example, is an interventional protocol built on a strategy of systematic repeat kidney biopsy in ANCA-associated glomerulonephritis.
These four levels form a single integrated continuum. Questions raised at the bedside are explored in biobanked samples and multi-omics data, tested in experimental models, and translated into interventional studies that come back to patients. Ideas, data, samples and hypotheses circulate continuously between levels, at the interface of nephrology, immunology, vasculitis and translational research.
We welcome discussions about academic and industry collaborations around these research areas. Interested in working with us? Get in touch.