Our research group focuses on understanding genome regulation during early mammalian development and how genome variations relate to human diseases. We study regulatory sequences, their effects on genes, and their role in gene networks using tools like genomics and gene editing. We work with mouse embryonic development as a model and explore cell differentiation and genome changes. Our aim is to unravel how the genome creates differences in cell types, development, organisms, and diseases.

The group investigates glycinergic neurotransmission in health and different pathological scenarios such as hyperekplexia and pain. Hyperekplexia or startle disease (OMIM: 149400) is a rare neurological disorder, without specific treatment, characterized by pathological startle response to trivial stimuli that can be fatal in newborns. It is caused by the blockade of glycinergic inhibition by mutations in crucial synaptic proteins, such as the neuronal glycine transporter GlyT2. The aim is the search for personalized therapies for human hyperekplexia.

Our research focuses on understanding how mitochondrial bioenergetics contribute to various cellular functions. Mitochondrial metabolism goes beyond ATP production and plays roles in cell death control, immunity, and oncogenesis. Impaired mitochondrial function is linked to metabolic disorders. We study mitochondrial metabolism's role in skeletal muscle pathophysiology, particularly the formation of muscular tubular aggregates (TA) caused by chronic mitochondrial dysfunction. TA is associated with various disorders.

The laboratory's research focuses on understanding the role of autophagy, a cellular degradation process, in various biological contexts. Autophagy plays a crucial role in maintaining cellular homeostasis and protecting against diseases like cancer, inflammation, and neurodegenerative disorders. The lab specifically investigates the functions of different components of the autophagic machinery, such as ATG16L1, which have both canonical and unconventional roles.

The group is focused on i) the biotechnological applications of small RNA molecules mimicking structural domains in the noncoding regions of the FMDV genome exerting a robust antiviral effect, which are being tested for their use as antiviral agents and vaccine adjuvants, and ii) the study of the interplay between FMDV and the host innate immunity system, involving the detection of the viral genome by cellular immune sensors and the characterization of the immune evasion mechanisms exerted by the virus to counteract the antiviral host response.

The Atmosphere, Aerosols and Climate Group (GAAC) (9 persons), studies the composition of the atmosphere, climate change and air quality. Goals: O1. Composition of the atmosphere, aerosols and climate. The study of the influence of man and natural processes on the composition of the atmosphere, especially the composition and properties of atmospheric aerosols that influence biogeochemical processes and climate. O2.

The main goal in our group is to understand the molecular basis of plant adaptation to changing environmental conditions. In particular, we are focused on the study of the regulation of gene expression as the main regulatory step of gene activity. We are following a combination of experimental and computational approaches for characterization and prediction of the main factors determining the activation of gene expression.

Ribosomes are responsible for translation of genetic information into proteins in all living organisms, and they are for example the target for about 50% of all known antibiotics in the case of the bacterial ribosome.

The group develops research projects related to the factors and mechanisms that evaluate the effects of Marine Protected Areas as management tools for the marine environment. To achieve this, a multidisciplinary approach is adopted that ranges from taxonomy and systematics, to the biology of species, structure and dynamics of populations and benthic communities and the relationship of biological processes with environmental factors.