The PETRA network aims to create in the “Région Sud” a consortium of researchers and clinicians around 3 major issues in neuro-oncology:
- treatment of primary adult and pediatric brain tumors, the majority being still incurable to date
- brain metastases constantly increasing
- emerging issue of neurotoxicity.
The PETRA network wishes to facilitate translation of the results from bench to patients’ bedside by developing relevant 3D human preclinical models and animal models mimicking the disease while improving interactions between researchers and clinicians at the regional level.

The PETRA network gathers 6 teams specialized in adult and pediatric neuro-oncology, distributed between Marseille and Nice, and expert in preclinical models and translational research.
The coordinators:
- Principal coordinator: Aurélie Tchoghandjian (CRCN), CNRS, AMU, Marseille
- Preclinical coordinator: Thierry Virolle (DR2), INSERM, Unice, Nice
- Translational coordinator: Emeline Tabouret (MCU/PH), AMU, APHM, Marseille

The PETRA network includes 3 platforms :
- PETRA“TECH”: a technical platform with a large offer of 3D human preclinical models, animal models and state-of-the-art technics in animal experimentation.
- PE“TRANSLA”: a translational research platform making easier the access to annotated biological resources (partnership with the CRBs of Marseille and Nice), and supporting teams towards clinical trials
- PETR“ADVICE”: a platform for advice, orientation and formation to help the community in the design of experimental projects, in the choice of optimal preclinical models and offering access to specific technologies/expertise.

PETRA Network

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Teams

Offices