Neurophotonics Laboratory
Located at the School of Optometry of the University of Montreal, the laboratory uses new neurophotonic approaches to allow the exploration of the brain and pave the way to a better understanding of the cerebral mechanisms allowing vision. Neurophotonics approaches are also used to develop new sight restoration strategies in visually impaired people.
Matthieu Vanni, Assistant Professor at the School of Optometry of the University of Montreal
Training
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MSc Neuroscience, Ecole normale supérieure, Paris, 2000
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MSc Imaging, Pierre & Marie Curie, Paris, 2002
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PhD in Biomedical Sciences, University of Montreal, 2004
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Postdoctoral fellowship, University of British Columbia, 2011
Technical approaches
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In vivo functional optical imaging (calcium imaging)
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Optogenetic stimulation
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Molecular Engineering
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Image analysis
Matthieu Vanni has been interested in neuroimaging and functional mapping for over 15 years.
His laboratory offers a unique platform for both fundamental and neuroengineering research.
His main research theme focuses on functional connectivity in order to decipher the cerebral mechanisms allowing vision.
His research involves the use of calcium imaging and optogenetics. Optogenetic approaches consist in expressing, by viral or transgenic means, exogenous proteins making it possible to manipulate or measure the activity of neurons using light.
This research also has a direct impact on the development of new therapeutic approaches related to visual impairments such as cortical blindness or the development of neuroprostheses for the restoration of sight (artificial eye).
