LABORATORY OF NEUROPHYSIOLOGY AND MOLECULAR PHARMACOLOGY

 Research line

Cys-loop receptors as therapeutic targets: from molecular to physiological and pathological aspects

Rapid communication in the nervous system is mediated by neurotransmitter-activated ion channels. Among them, the receptors of the Cys-loop family, which include nicotinic acetylcholine, serotonin 5-HT3, GABA and glycine receptors, stand out. These receptors play key roles in processes such as learning, memory, neuromuscular transmission, sensory processing and addiction. They are also found in non-neuronal cells where they exert anti-inflammatory and protective functions. Their dysfunction has been implicated in several human diseases, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, schizophrenia, hyperactivity, depression, congenital myasthenic syndromes, and inflammatory disorders. Our ultimate goals are to elucidate the mechanism and structural basis of Cys-loop receptor functionality, focusing on nicotinic and serotonin receptors; to design, develop and identify new synthetic and natural compounds that modulate these receptors with therapeutic potential for various nervous system pathologies; to validate nematode Caenorhabditis elegans models to study neurodegenerative and neurological disorders associated with Cys-loop receptors; and to use C. elegans as a platform to identify novel antiparasitic agents from synthetic and natural lead compounds. To this end, we use cell culture and molecular biology techniques, electrophysiological recordings, fluorescence and confocal microscopy, as well as culture and behavioral assays in C. elegans. The knowledge generated will provide the basis for the implementation of Cys-loop receptors as therapeutic targets and will contribute to the development of new drugs and new strategies for medical treatment.