Neuroprotection
Group Leader: Manuel Guzmán
Overview
Our research focuses globally on the study of the mechanisms underlying the control of neural cell survival and functionality by the endocannabinoid system, especially in the corticostriatal circuit and the hippocampus. On the one hand, we aim at deciphering the molecular and cellular basis of endocannabinoid system-mediated neuroprotection and neuromodulation, by studying (i) signal transduction pathways, (ii) new interactors of cannabinoid receptors, and (iii) the differential role of specific subpopulations of cannabinoid receptors.
On the other hand, in the pathological context, we are evaluating (i) the neuroprotective activity of the endocannabinoid system in animal models of Huntington’s disease (HD) and excitotoxicity, (ii) the possible role of cannabinoid CB1 receptor in the aetiology and development of those pathologies, and (iii) the participation of the glial endocannabinoid system in the neurodegenerative processes associated to them. We intend to define the potential biological and therapeutic relevance of these processes.
Our research is mainly funded by Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (MICINN; Programa de Biomedicina) and Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas (CIBERNED). Our group also belongs to Instituto Ramón y Cajal de Investigación Sanitaria (IRYCIS) and Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Neuroquímica (IUIN).
For further information on Huntington’s disease-related research you can visit the following web sites:
European Huntington’s Disease Network
