We met with Marie, in vivo technician at Oncodesign Services
Why did you choose the path of science?
[Marie L.] I still remember the first time I walked into a Science class. I was immediately attracted by the atmosphere, and the way of working behind a bench.
It was then during my studies that I was able to discover in vivo experimentation. There too, it was obvious for me to make it my job.
How would you explain your job ?
[ML] My work involves studying the effectiveness of a drug in development on mice. This is the so-called “preclinical” phase. If the results are conclusive, it will continue its development journey until clinical tests, then, potentially, until its launch on the market.
What are your daily missions?
[ML] No two days are the same; This is a great advantage for a person like me who tends to get tired of routine.
I spend more than 90% of my time “in the zone”, that is to say in the laboratory with animals. Depending on the protocols defined by our clients, I implant the tumor in the animal (subcutaneous or orthotopic model) and I administer the treatments in development. Then, 2 to 3 times a week, I study the evolution of the tumor (size), while monitoring the weight of the animal. This data is listed in a register and then sent to the customer.
It is essential that the studies are carried out in the best conditions, whether for me, my colleagues but also and above all for the animals. I like to think that “Happy animal makes good science”; Taking care of it is an integral and important part of my job.
What are the essential qualities to practice the profession of in vivo technician?
[ML] I could say…
- Autonomy – in planning studies and managing unforeseen events.
- Rigor, always at the heart of scientific professions.
- And finally, attention to detail, essential for the surgical actions that we carry out when implanting tumors.
You have had the opportunity to work on several projects related to the theme of the microbiome. What observation(s) were you able to draw from this?
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[ML] The microbiome is made up of fungi, yeast, viruses and mainly bacteria. We find these microorganisms in the mouth, the skin, the eyes… but it is largely the intestinal microbiome that interests us in the field of health. Indeed, it helps maintain the immune system; it is therefore important to take into account in the development of new drugs. I participated in a project whose objective was to replace the intestinal microbiota of mice with human intestinal flora (that of a patient for whom we wanted to test a molecule in the development phase). We then provided the results to study the impact this could have on the action of the drug. Studies related to the microbiome are very unique because each microbiome is made up of its own environment. What will work on colon cancer will not necessarily work on melanoma… This is why it is very complicated to provide complete and universal data on the place of the microbiome in the development of a new drug. |
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A quick word to encourage people to apply to Oncodesign Services??
If you want a stimulating environment where there is never a dull moment, Oncodesign Services is for you!