Personalized Mobility as a Key Driver of Health

Presentation

The International Research Center 3 (IRC3), integrated into the CAP 20-25 programme led by Université Clermont Auvergne, focuses its research on human mobility as a major determinant of health.
 

Individual mobility, particularly physical activity, plays a key role in quality of life, the prevention of chronic diseases, and the reduction of morbidity and mortality.
 

IRC3 develops an integrative approach combining the study of the musculoskeletal system with major biological and environmental determinants, including:

  • nutrition
  • dysbiosis and the microbiome
  • pain
  • genetic factors
  • chronic diseases

This cross-disciplinary approach provides a better understanding of the complex interactions between mobility and health and helps identify innovative pathways for intervention.

Key Figures (2017–2024)
  • 64 funded projects
  • €5 million in committed funding
  • 257 staff members involved
  • 1,500 supported publications
  • 720 patients monitored through the healthcare platform (2019–2023)

These indicators demonstrate the scientific dynamism and the impact of IRC3 at the local, national, and international levels.

Associated Research Units
Research and Innovation

A Structuring Scientific Network

IRC3 relies on 13 associated research units as well as 2 partner healthcare institutions. This structure fosters interdisciplinary synergies and the development of projects with strong scientific and clinical added value.

Scientific Valorisation

13 patents filed 5 start-ups created

  • These achievements reflect a strong commitment to transferring knowledge into innovation and fostering links with the socio-economic sector.

  • 1 shared international laboratory (HOMIGUT)

Mobility Exploration Platform

A dedicated platform brings together the Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital (CHU), the Jean Perrin Centre, and the Human Nutrition Research Centre (CRNH). It enables in-depth clinical assessment of mobility and patient monitoring through an integrated health–mobility approach.

Strategic Objectives

IRC3 pursues four major objectives:

1. Identify new biomarkers associated with physical inactivity and exercise adaptations in chronic diseases.

2. Investigate the genetic basis of neuromuscular diseases in relation to nutrition and the microbiome.

3. Develop new therapeutic, nutritional, or pharmacological approaches to optimize locomotor health.

4. Transfer scientific knowledge to the general public and healthcare stakeholders in order to promote health-promoting lifestyles.

Partnerships and Regional Engagement

IRC3 develops close collaborations with regional and national stakeholders, including CityLab 2 in Vichy and the French Hiking Federation.

These partnerships aim to promote physical activity as a public health driver and to strengthen the societal impact of research activities.

Vision

IRC3 aims to position Clermont-Ferrand as a leading European hub in the field of personalized mobility for health, by developing a strong multi-partner scientific network and enhancing its international visibility.