Functional genomics to study development, evolution and human diseases

Functional genomics to study development, evolution and human diseases


In our group we are combining epigenomics, chromosome capture assays, transgenic enhancer experiments and mutagenic studies to determine how cis-regulatory elements and chromatin structure contribute to development and evolution, and how alteration in this non-coding part of the genome affects human health.

Main specialization

Cell integration of diverse genetic inputs during the morphogenesis of complex organs

Cell integration of diverse genetic inputs during the morphogenesis of complex organs


Our group studies how two-dimensional epithelial sheets of cells reorganize during development to make specific organs. To address this issue we are following two complementary lines of research: (1) Control of Hox induced morphogenesis and (2) Study of the Drosophila JAK/STAT signalling function during development.

Main specialization

Control of cellular space, morphogenesis and nuclear architecture

Control of cellular space, morphogenesis and nuclear architecture


The projects conducted in our laboratory are aimed at understanding how cells acquire their characteristic shape and how they maintain nuclear architecture and genomic integrity. To study these questions, we are using a simple eukaryote, genetically tractable fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, as a model organism. Fission yeast is a useful model for addressing these problems, due to its easy genetics, availability of genome-wide collection of gene deletions and well developed microscopic, genetic and molecular biology tools.

Main specialization

Oxidative stress control

Oxidative stress control


Study of the regulation of the biosynthesis of coenzyme Q in eukaryotes: Implications of CoQ on aging and modifications of fibroblasts in ataxia. Caloric restriction: bioenergetic, oxidative damage and aging.

Main specialization

Signaling in Cell Damage and Cancer

Signaling in Cell Damage and Cancer


Our group focuses its research on the study of intracellular and intercellular mechanisms that are activated in response to injury, particularly in liver and neurodegenerative diseases as well as processes of carcinogenesis. Our work combines cell models and primary cultures with animal models that mimic human diseases. The ultimate goal is a better understanding of the signaling involved in diseases allows developing therapeutic interventions to improve the treatment of human disease. The main lines of research we address are: - Therapeutic targets in Alzheimer's disease (Dr.

Main specialization

Cell death in development and disease

Cell death in development and disease


Apoptotic microtubules network during the execution phase of apoptosis Selective mitochondrial degradation (mitophagy) in mitochondrial diseases

Main specialization

Mechanisms of gene regulation and biofilm development

Mechanisms of gene regulation and biofilm development


Work in the group is focused on the study of molecular regulatory mechanisms in bacterial metabolism and biofilm development, and the application of such knowledge to processes of biotechnological or environmental interest.

Main specialization