Institut d'Investigació Biomédica de Bellvitge (IDIBELL)
Contacto correo-e:apujol@idibell.cat
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The Lab for Neurometabolic Diseases at IDIBELL is currently seeking
candidates for engaging in PhD student programs at the University of
Barcelona. We offer advanced, interdisciplinary training in the field of
neurodegenerative disease and systems neuroscience, and a lively and
international educational atmosphere, with excellent state-of-the-art
laboratory facilities and competitive fellowships.
Our research is geared towards elucidating the molecular mechanisms
underlying axonal damage and degeneration in inherited leukodystrophies,
currently incurable. A major research focus lies on X-linked
adrenoleukodystrophy (X-ALD). After generation and characterization of
mouse models for the disease, we have applied a combination of –omic
tools (transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics), together with
molecular and cellular neurobiology approaches, to unveil key
dysregulated metabolic routes and signalling pathways, previously
unrelated to the pathology. This has allowed the tailored design of
preclinical tests and the launching of a clinical trial for X-ALD
patients, with a novel cocktail of antioxidants.
Our latest achievements include the demonstration that oxidative stress
induces severe compromise of energy homeostasis, mitochondria and
proteasome functions, leading to axonal degeneration in X-ALD. These are
dysregulated molecular pathways in common to the most prevalent
neurodegenerative conditions and aging, underscoring the relevance and
impact of our research.
We welcome students interested in applying genetics, bioinformatics,
biochemistry, molecular biology and neurobiology tools to understand
molecular mechanisms that underlie the transition from a dysregulated
energy homeostasis into a neurodegenerative process. The proposed
project deals with investigating the function of nuclear receptors such
as RIP140 and PGC-1, at the crossroads of energy metabolism,
inflammation and neurodegeneration, using knockout and transgenic mice,
and derived primary neural cultures. Projects are well suited to
candidates who wish to see their contributions translated into real
treatments for patients.
Información complementaria de la oferta:
Interested candidates should visit our website: www.neurometabolic-lab.org, and send their cover letters and CV including academic records to apujol@idibell.cat.
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