Scientific Biography

I have now contributed to the pain field for 10 years. I started my PhD in the laboratory of Dr. Cyril Rivat by interrogating the peripheral mechanisms underlying the transition from acute to chronic pain. I have participated in one of the laboratory’s foundational work that showed for the first time the implication of FLT3, a tyrosine kinase receptor, in the development of chronic neuropathic pain (Nature Communications, 2018). As a follow up to this initial work, my research was focused 1) on the contribution of FLT3 in the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) to the mechanisms of sensitization linked to chronic post-surgical pain, and 2) on the role of FLT3 in opioid-induced hyperalgesia and tolerance. I identified the development of comorbid depression in a model of post-operative pain and showed that FLT3 is directly contributing to the concomitant development of pain and depression through the activation of microglia in the spinal cord (Progress in Neurobiology, 2023). I also found that inhibiting FLT3 can, not only prevent opioid-induced hyperalgesia and tolerance, but also improve the analgesic efficacy of opioids (Nature Communications, 2024). As a result, we generated functional antibodies against both murine and human FLT3, as well as small molecule FLT3 inhibitors (BDTs) that were screened in vitro and in vivo in different chronic pain models. A candidate FLT3 inhibitor, BDT272, was selected, and advanced phase 1 of clinical trials in 2025. Overall, the findings from my PhD research have significant implications for both the understanding of pain neurobiology and the development of therapeutic treatments for pain, with high societal impact potential.

During my postdoc, due to the increasing concerns in regard to the opioid epidemic, I wished to continue investigating the neurobiology of pain and opioids by joining the lab of Dr. Grégory Scherrer. I also wanted to broaden my knowledge by not only studying the peripheral and spinal mechanisms of pain, but also the brain circuits underlying chronic pain conditions. This led me to undertake different projects. 1) In collaboration with the laboratory of Dr. Bryan Roth, I continued my research on the peripheral nervous system and helped develop the first peripherally-restricted inhibitory designer receptor exclusively activated by designer drug (DREADD) made based on the structure of the hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2 (HCA2), together with a blood-brain barrier-impermeant chemical actuator. This DREADD reduced DRG neuronal activation and pain phenotypes when selectively expressed in nociceptors (Cell, 2024). 2) I built a functional atlas of mu-opioid receptor (MOR)-expressing spinal cord neuron types. This work led to the discovery of a MOR-expressing ventral horn neuron-type that is also key in the development and recovery of chronic pain. 3) I helped characterizing the pain brain network using genetic trapping of activated neurons (Scientific report, 2023). This work in now being completed with a more hollistic approach including whole-brain tissue clearing and imaging using light-sheet microscopy in various acute and chronic pain models. Other collaborative works include the characterization of 1) microglia transcriptional and morphological responses during chronic pain and opioid exposure, a study to which I am co-first author (Pain, 2024), 2) a cortico-pontine circuit in placebo analgesia (Nature, 2024), and 3) an amygdala cell atlas enabling precision pharmacology against pain unpleasantness (under review in Cell, 2025).

In alignment with these efforts, my career trajectory is broad-ranging yet possesses a coherent focus: to comprehensively understand the contributions of different peripheral or spinal neuron types to acute and chronic pain representation in the brain, with a side focus on consequent comorbidities, including opioid use and withdrawal.

Extracurricular interests

I believe true passion for science extends beyond the selfish pursuit of knowledge; it is a broader enthusiasm for life itself, and a genuine desire to make a difference in promoting societal well-being. While I am deeply committed to the field of science, which is known for its competitiveness and challenging journey towards becoming a principal investigator, I also recognize the importance of pursuing other interests to gain a new perspective and enhance my overall well-being.

My inherent curiosity about the natural world and biology has always fueled my passion for science, and I am not afraid to take risks in order to explore and expand my knowledge. Beyond the laboratory, I find great enjoyment in a variety of outdoor activities such as rock climbing, hiking, mountaineering, and skydiving, among others. By engaging in these diverse pursuits, I am able to step outside of my comfort zone and gain a new appreciation for the world around me.

Overall, I believe that having a well-rounded approach to life and embracing a variety of passions is essential for personal growth and fulfilment. While science is my primary focus, I am eager to continue exploring new experiences that will help me become a more knowledgeable and well-rounded individual.