1) Glioblastomas

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBMs)is an aggressive type of cancer for which existing therapeutic options are very limited.  The identification and understanding of signaling pathways involved in the formation and development of GBMs is crucial to improve the conditions of patients diagnosed with this tumor as the mean survival time post-diagnosis is around 12 months.  Identifying non-coding RNAs (miRNAs, lncRNAs) that are strongly modulated in GBMs could provide interesting candidates for targeted therapeutic intervention. 

2) Cold Adaptation

To cope with the lack of food and cold temperatures, many small mammals hibernate.  This state is characterized by periods of torpor that can last for several weeks and during which the animal drastically reduces its metabolism, its heartbeat and its body temperature.  Entry and maintenance of this torpid state requires an important reorganization of the different metabolic processes in these animals.  Identifying the non-coding RNAs (miRNAs, lncRNAs) involved in regulating this tightly-controlled process is another research objective.