Résumé
This thesis aims to explore in depth the role of cholesterol in cerebral physiology. It examineshow cholesterol, along with its oxidized derivatives, oxysterols, can influence neuronal functionand contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease,Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Additionally, the thesis investigates the potentialeffects of statins on these pathologies, which are commonly used to reduce peripheralcholesterol levels.In support of the importance of cholesterol metabolism in neuropathies, an important part ofthis thesis focuses on the impact of a particular oxysterol, 25-hydroxycholesterol, on one of thekey brain structures: the blood-brain barrier. The results of the experiments provide newperspectives for the development of therapeutic strategies.