Heterogeneous materials based on organic polymers: Polymer Blends; Composites; Interfacial Agents coming from the chemical modification of polymers; Solid Waste treatments and Polymer Recycling.

STUDY OF THE MECHANISMS THAT CONTROL CELL PLASTICITY AND MOVEMENTS DURING EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT AND IN ADULT PATHOLOGIES. The epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) endows cells with migratory and invasive properties and is crucial during embryonic development, as the majority of adult tissues are the result of at least one round of EMT and the reverse process (MET). We found the first transcription factor able to induce EMT in embryos (Science, 1994) and its connection with cancer (Nat Cell Biol, 2000), and achondroplasia (Dev Cell, 1997).

TO BE LOADED SOON

Our group studies the properties of the receptors that form the excitatory synapses and that make possible the transmission of information in the brain. To this end we use electrophysiological tools, cellular and molecular biology as well as imaging techniques and transgenic animal models. In particular, we study the kainate type of glutamate receptors and how at presynaptic level they regulate neurotransmitter release and postsynaptically mediate the transmission of information.

In our group we are interested in fruit development and evolution. Our goal is to understand how carpel and fruit patterning is established, and what is the molecular basis of the morphological and functional diversity found in Nature. We also are studying the genetic factors that control the lenght of the reproductive phase in monocarpic (annual) plants and thus, total flower and fruit production. In addition, we aim to develop biotechnological tools for breeding of higher yield and desirable fruit-related traits in crop species

The 'Tissue Culture and Plant Breeding' group includes a Full Professor, two Senior Lecturers and two Postdoctoral Fellow Researchers. In addition, we currently have two PhD research students and eight performing the final master's or degree's work. The objectives of the group are the development and application of plant tissue culture techniques and genetic transformation for breeding of horticultural species (tomato, watermelon, melon, and cucumber) and ornamentals plants. We are characterized by the facility to collaborate with other national and foreign groups.

Ion homeostasis is a dynamic process and a fundamental requirement for all organisms. Many different minerals are required for essential biochemical processes, but accumulation of these elements is toxic. Thus, all living organisms have developed efficient systems to acquire and store these elements and robust mechanisms to maintain homeostatic concentrations to avoid toxicity and to respond to environmental changes.

The research group on Distributed Computing on Grids develops its work in the development of distributed computing architectures at pan-European level: federated identity systems for user authentication, advanced software for cloud environments, and data management in distributed infrastructures. The group puts special emphasis on the applicability to scientific use cases. In recent years the support has been concentrated especially in the areas of Particle Physics, Nuclear Fusion, Materials and Environmental Sciences.

Tissue regeneration in acute renal damage and organ transplantation. Study of the mechanisms associated with regeneration, prevention and monitoring of ischemia/reperfusion damage, either associated with transplantation or in pathologies involving ischemic processes. Discovery and application of cellular and pharmacological therapies aimed at preventing tissue damage and promoting regeneration. In both cases the different members of the group are part of CIBEREHD (CIBER of hepatic and digestive diseases) and CIBER-BBN (CIBER of Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine) respectively.

Group in transformation due to retirement of the previous IP. Our research is focused on the study of the cellular and molecular aspects of neurodegenerative diseases with an inflammatory component. At present, the main research line is the study of GRP78-CB1R interaction and neuroprotection. Group members also participate in research projects led by PIs from other IIBB groups.