AMINA DARDOUR

Project: Identification of missing genetic causes of late-onset cerebellar ataxias

Supervisor: Dr.PhD Mr. Thomas Wirth

Analysis of exome DNA sequencing data from 145 subjects.
Search for SNV nucleotide variants, short indels, CNV structure variants.
Search for GAA expansion localised in the FGF14 gene.
Validation by targeted sequencing using the Sanger method.

Supervisor: Doctor & Professor Sana Ben Amor - Head of Neurology Department, Sahloule University Hospital.

I acquired clinical knowledge of various neurological diseases, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and epilepsy.
I learned to:
Interpret MRI brain images
Perform cognitive tests such as the MMSE (Mini-Mental State Examination), the clock test, the CODEX test and the 5-word test
Babinski's sign, Hoffman's sign & Reflex test.
Examining rigidity in Parkinson's patients
Analyze biological tests: CSF
I've had the opportunity to assist three surgical operations on the nervous system:
- Lumbar disc herniation L6
- Cervical disc herniation C5
- Removal of a meningioma tumor
In order to establish the link between pathology and disease-causing factors:
I constructed Statistical data, showing the correlation between pathology and environmental & genetic factors.
Skills developed :
Soft skills: An active listening, An effective communication with patients and medical team, An empathy.
Hard skills: Analysis and interpretation of clinical data, Application of diagnostic tests, Use of medical protocols.
This experience has enabled me to develop an in-depth understanding of the clinical aspects of neurodegenerative diseases and to acquire essential practical skills in the field of clinical neurological research.

Supervisor: Prof. Anne-Laurette Boutier - Researcher in the Epigenetic modification of neurogenetic process team at LNCA.

I have deepened my knowledge of Lewy body dementia and epigenetic processes, broadening my understanding of the impact of Phthalate DEHP (a toxic composition) on the acceleration of the Lowy body dementia.
On a technical level, I have acquired expertise in:
- Molecular biology, in particular by carrying out RT-qPCR (real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction with reverse transcription) experiments on mouse nerve tissue: the Frontal Cortex. This technique enabled me to analyze gene expression of Neuro-Plasticty gene and Neuro-immunology gene.
- My bioinformatics skills have also developed, with mastery of the CEMiTool and STRING tools. This software has enabled me to analyze gene networks and explore protein-protein interactions, enriching my analytical approach to biological data.
In terms of cross-disciplinary skills, I've improved considerably:
- my ability to communicate effectively within a laboratory team.
This experience enabled me to develop essential soft skills such as :
- Adapting to a dynamic research environment
- Managing time and priorities in a multi-project environment
- Interdisciplinary collaboration
These skills, combined with my technical and theoretical knowledge, enable me to tackle the challenges of neuroscience research with a global and integrated approach.