Sophie Sophie Hillion | Immunologie | Women Researcher Award
PU-PH, INSERM, Université Brest, CHU Brest, France.
Sophie Hillion is a distinguished researcher in the field of immunology, currently affiliated with the Laboratoire d’Immunologie et Immunothérapie (LBAI) at CHU Morvan in Brest, France. With a strong academic background and extensive research experience, she has made significant contributions to understanding B-cell tolerance, autoimmunity, and transplantation mechanisms. Sophie’s commitment to teaching and mentoring has helped shape the next generation of scientists. She has successfully secured multiple research grants, demonstrating her capability to lead impactful projects. Her leadership roles in hospital activities and quality assurance further emphasize her dedication to advancing medical science. With a focus on addressing critical health challenges, Sophie is recognized as a strong advocate for women in research and an inspiring figure in her field.
Profile
Education📝
Sophie Hillion’s educational journey showcases her dedication to the life sciences. She obtained her Baccalauréat Scientifique with honors in Mathematics in 1996, followed by a Licence in Biology of Organisms from the Université de Bretagne Occidentale in 2000. Continuing her studies, she earned a Master’s degree in Cell Biology and Physiology in 2001 and a DEA in Biology and Health in 2002, both from Université de Bretagne Occidentale. In 2005, she achieved her Doctorate in Life Sciences with “Very Honorable with Jury Congratulations,” reflecting her exceptional research capabilities. Sophie also obtained her Habilitation to Supervise Research in 2010 and was subsequently nominated as a MCU-PH at LBAI. This strong academic foundation has equipped her with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in her research career and contribute significantly to the scientific community.
Experience👨🏫
Sophie Hillion has accumulated extensive research experience throughout her career. After completing her doctorate, she served as a postdoctoral fellow at INSERM U643 in Nantes from 2006 to 2007, where she further honed her research skills. She also engaged in clinico-biological internships at various prestigious labs, including CHRU d’Angers and Hôpital Cochin, from 2010 to 2011. In 2021, Sophie expanded her international exposure as a visiting researcher at the University of Denver’s Anschutz Medical Campus in the USA. Her teaching experience is equally impressive; since 2007, she has taught various subjects, including biochemistry and immunology, at the Université de Bretagne Occidentale. Sophie’s diverse research and teaching experiences reflect her commitment to advancing knowledge in immunology and her ability to inspire future researchers.
Research Interest🔬
Sophie Hillion’s primary research interests lie in the fields of B-cell immunology, autoimmunity, and transplantation. Her work focuses on understanding the mechanisms underlying B-cell tolerance and the immunological responses involved in autoimmune diseases. Through her research, Sophie aims to uncover the complex interactions between immune cells, particularly B lymphocytes, and their roles in health and disease. This research is crucial for developing new therapeutic strategies to address challenges in transplantation and autoimmune disorders. Sophie’s investigations also include exploring the effects of various factors on immune responses, which can provide insights into improving patient outcomes. By contributing to the understanding of these fundamental processes, she hopes to make significant advancements in the field of immunology and enhance the quality of life for patients affected by these conditions
Awards and Honors🏆
Sophie Hillion has received several awards and honors throughout her academic and research career, recognizing her exceptional contributions to the field of immunology. Her doctoral dissertation, which was awarded “Very Honorable with Jury Congratulations,” highlights her outstanding research capabilities. Additionally, her successful acquisition of multiple research grants from various institutions demonstrates her ability to secure funding for impactful projects. Sophie has also been recognized for her teaching excellence, receiving positive evaluations for her courses in biochemistry, oncology, genetics, and pharmacology. As a female researcher in a predominantly male field, she serves as a role model for aspiring women scientists, advocating for gender equality and representation in research. These accolades reflect her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge and her commitment to supporting the next generation of researchers.
Skills🛠️
Sophie Hillion possesses a diverse skill set that has contributed to her success in both research and teaching. Her strong foundation in immunology and cell biology allows her to conduct complex experiments and analyses effectively. Proficient in advanced techniques such as flow cytometry, she oversees immunological examinations and ensures high-quality research outcomes. Sophie’s teaching skills enable her to convey complex scientific concepts clearly to students at various academic levels, fostering their understanding and interest in the subject. Additionally, her experience in securing research funding demonstrates her strategic planning and organizational abilities. As a supervisor of internships and master’s theses, she showcases her mentorship and leadership qualities. Sophie’s commitment to continuous learning and collaboration further enhances her capabilities, making her a valuable asset to the scientific community and a strong advocate for women in research.
Conclusion 🔍
Sophie Hillion is an exemplary figure in the field of immunology, recognized for her extensive academic qualifications, research contributions, and dedication to teaching. Her expertise in B-cell immunology and autoimmune diseases addresses critical health challenges, highlighting the importance of her work in advancing medical science. Sophie’s commitment to mentoring future scientists and advocating for women in research underscores her leadership and vision for a more inclusive scientific community. Through her impressive track record of securing research funding and her impactful teaching roles, she inspires both her students and colleagues. Recognizing her contributions through awards, such as the Research for Women Researcher Award, would not only honor her achievements but also promote the visibility and representation of women in scientific research, paving the way for future generations of female researchers.
Title: Maf expression in B cells restricts reactive plasmablast and germinal center B cell expansion
Authors: Hillion, S., Miranda, A., Le Dantec, C., Torres, R.M., Pelanda, R.
Year: 2024
Citation: Nature Communications, 2024, 15(1), 7982.
Title: Association of Combined Anti-Ro52/TRIM21 and Anti-Ro60/SSA Antibodies With Increased Sjögren Disease Severity Through Interferon Pathway Activation
Authors: Bettacchioli, E., Saraux, A., Tison, A., Pers, J.-O., Devauchelle-Pensec, V.
Year: 2024
Citation: Arthritis and Rheumatology, 2024, 76(5), pp. 751–762.
Title: Autoreactive Plasmablasts After B Cell Depletion With Rituximab and Relapses in Antineutrophil Cytoplasmic Antibody–Associated Vasculitis
Authors: Berti, A., Hillion, S., Konig, M.F., Specks, U., Cornec, D.
Year: 2023
Citation: Arthritis and Rheumatology, 2023, 75(5), pp. 736–747.
Title: Safety and pharmacokinetics of Roscovitine (Seliciclib) in cystic fibrosis patients chronically infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a randomized, placebo-controlled study
Authors: Meijer, L., Hery-Arnaud, G., Leven, C., Mottier, D., Berre, R.L.
Year: 2022
Citation: Journal of Cystic Fibrosis, 2022, 21(3), pp. 529–536.
Title: Molecular Mechanisms Driving IL-10-Producing B Cells Functions: STAT3 and c-MAF as Underestimated Central Key Regulators?
Authors: Michée-Cospolite, M., Boudigou, M., Grasseau, A., Le Pottier, L., Hillion, S.
Year: 2022
Citation: Frontiers in Immunology, 2022, 13, 818814.
Title: Circulating autoreactive proteinase 3+ B cells and tolerance checkpoints in ANCA-associated vasculitis
Authors: Berti, A., Hillion, S., Hummel, A.M., Specks, U., Cornec, D.
Year: 2021
Citation: JCI Insight, 2021, 6(22), e150999.
Title: The diversity of the plasmablast signature across species and experimental conditions: A meta-analysis
Authors: Grasseau, A., Boudigou, M., Michée-Cospolite, M., Le Pottier, L., Hillion, S.
Year: 2021
Citation: Immunology, 2021, 164(1), pp. 120–134.
Title: A Proinflammatory Cytokine Network Profile in Th1/Type 1 Effector B Cells Delineates a Common Group of Patients in Four Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Simon, Q., Grasseau, A., Boudigou, M., Rao, S., Pers, J.O.
Year: 2021
Citation: Arthritis and Rheumatology, 2021, 73(8), pp. 1550–1561.
Title: Abatacept promotes regulatory B cell functions, enhancing their ability to reduce the Th1 response in rheumatoid arthritis patients through the production of IL-10 and TGF-b
Authors: Alegria, G.C., Cornec, D., Saraux, A., Pers, J.-O., Pochard, P.
Year: 2021
Citation: Journal of Immunology, 2021, 207(2), pp. 470–482.
Title: Complement System: a Neglected Pathway in Immunotherapy
Authors: Bordron, A., Bagacean, C., Tempescul, A., Hillion, S., Renaudineau, Y.
Year: 2020
Citation: Clinical Reviews in Allergy and Immunology, 2020, 58(2), pp. 155–171.