Gabriel Pitollat

I obtained my Ph.D. in Neuroscience from the University of Bordeaux (France) in 2023. 

I subsequently joined the Herlenius group in May 2024 as a postdoctoral fellow to investigate the perinatal development of the neural networks controlling breathing. 

As a neurophysiologist, I specialized in fundamental and preclinical research, combining in vitro electrophysiological, neuroanatomical, and pharmacological approaches.

Breathing at birth is the most tremendous physiological challenge that a newborn faces in sustaining life and relies on the proper fetal development of the brainstem neural networks that control respiratory rhythmogenesis. Birth triggers complex neuroendocrine responses, involving crucial peptidergic regulation of cardiovascular, pulmonary, and homeostatic functions. However, the specific roles of these neuroendocrine responses in both supporting respiratory-related networks development and triggering a newborn's breathing at birth remain poorly understood. 

Thus, my research mainly focuses on improving our understanding on whether and how several important peptidergic systems help the respiratory "machinery" ensure breathing at birth and facilitate the transition from intra- to extra-uterine life.