Disorders of Consciousness & Brain Injury

Our research group specializes in the clinical neuroscience of disorders of consciousness (DoC) and acquired brain injuries, including traumatic brain injury (TBI), hypoxic-ischemic brain injury, and concussion. We combine clinical expertise with advanced neuroimaging and neuromodulation techniques to enhance diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies for these complex neurological conditions.

Focus Areas

We emphasize research on:

- Prolonged disorders of consciousness (e.g., vegetative state, minimally conscious state)

- Persistent post-concussive symptoms (PPCS) following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI)

Our multidisciplinary work includes:

- Multimodal neuroimaging (PET, MRI, EEG) to detect biomarkers of brain injury, analyze molecular and microstructural changes, and evaluate treatment response

- Neuromodulation interventions, including transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS), to develop innovative therapeutic approaches

- Pharmacological and behavioral therapies aimed at supporting recovery of consciousness and cognitive function

Collaborations

We collaborate with:

- NeuroRecovery Lab (Dr. Aurore Thibaut)

- Coma Science Group (Dr. Olivia Gosseries)

These collaborations take place within the GIGA-Consciousness Research Center at the University of Liège.

For clinical information, visit our NeuroRehab & Consciousness Clinic at the Neurology Department, CHU of Liège.

Ongoing Research Projects

1. Pathophysiology of Disorders of Consciousness

This project investigates the molecular and microstructural changes in patients with prolonged DoC due to severe brain injury. We use advanced multimodal imaging (including quantitative MRI) to study alterations in neurotransmitter systems and brain microstructure, focusing on the brainstem and cortical regions. Our goal is to discover diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets to guide clinical care.

2. Persistent Post-Concussive Symptoms after mTBI

Led by Mélanie Louras, under the supervision of Dr. Aurore Thibaut and Dr. Nicolas Lejeune, this project examines the neurobiological mechanisms behind long-term symptoms following concussion. By integrating functional MRI, high-density EEG, and clinical profiling, we aim to identify neural correlates of symptom persistence. The study also explores the therapeutic use of taVNS to modulate affected brain networks and promote recovery.

3. Advanced Neurorehabilitation Approaches in persistent post-concussive symptoms

Led by Fanny Montulet, under the supervision of Prof. Nicolas Lejeune and Dr. Géraldine Martens, this project investigates how neuromodulation (hd-tDCS) and physical therapy may help normalize cerebral activity in patients with persistent post-concussive symptoms. By combining targeted transcranial stimulation with specific physical therapy intervention, the study aims to identify innovative strategies to promote functional recovery.