We are interested in understanding how genes control behaviour, physiology and regeneration using nematodes and oligochaetes.

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The three main lines of research are:

 

1. Molecular mechanisms of regeneration of annelids 

The oligochaete Lumbriculus variegatus is capable of regenerating its anterior and posterior segments. We are studying the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that underlie regeneration in L. variegatus. As a starting point, my lab examines redox signalling, innexins, metabolism and epigenetic modifications, as well as the effect of neurotransmitters to understand their role in regeneration.

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In addition, we are implementing techniques to improve the use of L. variegatus as a study model. Examples of this are the generation of the transcriptional footprint of regeneration  (Tellez-García et al. 2021), in situ hybridization, immunohistochemistry and iRNA protocols that we have developed.

 

Our la b is also investigating the mechanisms that regulate myelin regeneration of L. variegatus, as a model to study demyelinating diseases of humans.

 

2. Molecular mechanisms of the anaesthetic effects of ethanol

In order to elucidate the mechanisms that underlie the anaesthetic effect of ethanol, we are currently generating resistant and susceptible mutants of C. elegans.

 

3. Mechanisms of action and resistance to antihelminthics

We are investigating the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that underlie antihelminthic resistance. For this, we use  Caenorhabditis elegans as a model.

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