We use massive-scale experimentation and mathematical modeling to understand and predict how the biophysical properties of the molecules of life are encoded in their sequences. These fundamental encoding functions underlie all of biology with implications for our understanding of genetic diseases, evolutionary adaptation, and biomolecular engineering. To approach these problems, we use deep mutational scanning (DMS), a powerful experimental technique that allows us to systematically measure the functional effects of thousands of genetic variants in a single experiment.

Our group investigates how the tumour microenvironment influences cancer progression, metastatic spread, and resistance to therapy. We focus on the role of extracellular vesicles, obesity, and key receptors such as NGFR in shaping tumour–host interactions, influencing immune responses and cancer progression. By uncovering these mechanisms, we aim to pinpoint therapeutic targets that can block metastatic growth and overcome treatment resistance.

XXX

The research group led by Dr. Elena Herrera-Carrillo focuses on developing innovative genetic and molecular strategies to combat viral infections and advance gene therapy technologies. Her team integrates RNA biology, genome editing, promoter engineering, peptide-based antivirals, and viral vector design to create precise, safe, and durable therapeutic approaches. The group investigates the molecular mechanisms underlying virus–host interactions with the goal of developing next-generation therapies capable of achieving long-term, treatment-free viral control.

Microtubules provide essential mechanical support and drive key processes like cell division and intracellular transport. Our research explores how macromolecular machines mediating microtubule dynamics are regulated during rapid remodeling events, including cell division and immune synapse formation. This regulation involves complex protein-protein interactions, post-translational modifications, and conformational changes. We focus specifically on the γ-tubulin ring complex (γTuRC), the primary driver of microtubule nucleation.

The Research Group THEORIA CUM PRAXI (TcP) ETHICS, EPISTEMOLOGY and SOCIEDAD was named after the Leibnizian adage, adopted by Kant in Theorie and Praxis, whose understanding was that all Praxis can be realised and improved from Theory. From Ethical, Philosophical and Culture coordinates, the group assumes the enlightened motto that ideas should mould our daily lives.

The research of the ‘Nutrition and Production of Herbivores’ group is mainly focused on the study of the nutritional factors affecting metabolism, productive performance, final product characteristics and well-being of herbivores of livestock farming interest.