About Dr. Alberto Pascual

Elucidation of the mechanisms underlying the positive effects of trophic factors on specific neuronal populations.

In particular, we are characterizing the molecular players involved in the maintenance by GDNF of specific catecholaminergic populations in the central and peripheral nervous systems. By using genetically modified animals, proteomic, genomic and imaging techniques, we are identifying the neuroprotective actions of trophic factors that operate both at the level of the terminals and the soma of these neurons.

Neuronal adaptations to acute changes in oxygen concentration.

We are also studying neuronal adaptations to acute decreases in the levels of available oxygen. These mechanisms will be crucial in determining cellular fate after a hypoxic or ischemic insult. We have used proteomic techniques to study how the proteome evolves in cellular lines and in animals to respond to a physiologically brief episode of hypoxia. The underlying hypothesis is that all cells, and in particular neurons, have specific acute molecular responses to achieve homeostasis under oxygen deprivation. More recently we are investigating the effect of hypoxia on the progression of several neurodegenerative diseases.

Analysis of biological and biomedical images using System Biology methods.

Dr. Luis M. Escudero leads an independent research line combining computerized image analysis and Network Science to investigate different biological and biomedical questions. Extracting the defining signature of complex images we obtain objective and quantitative information that help to interpret biological processes in development and disease. Our research interests span from the morphogenesis of the fly wing to human neuromuscular diseases.

For further information, please also see here and here.

A full publication record can be found here.