Neuronal plasticity in health and disease Research line

Established in 2021, the research line in Neuronal Plasticity in Health and Disease focuses on the multidisciplinary study of repair and regeneration mechanisms within the central nervous system. The team is led by Ph.D. Lluís Pujadas Puigdomènech as coordinator and Senior Researcher, alongside Senior Researcher Ph.D. Esther Dalfó Capella. This research initiative is integrated into the ‘Mechanisms of Injury, Transformation, and Tissue Regeneration’ area of the TR2Lab.”

We will be focused on the understanding of molecular and cellular mechanisms regulating neuronal plasticity under physiological and pathological conditions. One of the main interests will be the study of developmental-like mechanisms that remain active in the adult brain with protective roles against neuronal pathologies. The progression of neurodegenerative diseases will be investigated focusing on the events occurring in the extracellular matrix, as well as in the process of proteinopathy as a wide-range mechanism of degeneration such as Alzhiemer’s disease and Parkinson’s Disease.

The group utilizes a specialized platform to thoroughly investigate the preclinical stages of neurodegeneration using the C. elegans model, which enables the development of therapies to be assayed prior to the onset of neurodegeneration. Our research aims not only to advance the understanding of the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration but also to develop therapeutic strategies that enhance the quality of life for patients, their families, and caregivers.