Understanding the brain as a network with crucial contribution of glial cells
In the brain, rapid and slow communication within networks integrated by diverse cell types (mainly neuronal and glial populations) results in what we understand as normal behavior. Although a rapidly growing body of information about specialized cell-cell communication is available, we are just starting to understand how this communication network is established and works as a whole system. Moreover, deviations during the establishment of networks, or disruption of them, cause abnormalities that manifest as disease symptoms.
Analyze intracellular signaling of glial cells in the context of health and disease
Regulation of intracellular signal pathways in glial cells is crucial to maintain brain homeostasis. When mutations in genes of members of signal pathways occur, the structure/function of glial cells is altered, as is their interaction with other cells. Therefore, my research focuses on studying signal pathway regulators in the context of the normal and diseased brain.
Research purpose
Through collaboration with colleague basic researchers, physicians, and physician researchers, the goal of my lab is to understand the participation of glial cells in diseases at the molecular level, and utilize this information for the design of therapies to stop the progression, or ameliorate the symptoms, of neurodevelopmental and neurological diseases.