Inicio 9 Research topics 9 Evaluating neuronal functionality through extracellular vesicles in models of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

RESEARCH PROGRAMMES

P3: Nanomedicine against cancer and infection

RESEARCH SUPERVISOR(S)

Dr. Valle Palomo
Research Group website: https://www.nanociencia.imdea.org/home-en/people/item/valle-palomo-ruiz

RESEARCH TOPIC DESCRIPTION

The project offered is focused in improving the understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, specially amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. The objective will be to implement the measurement of dynamic functions of neurons such as axonal transport and examine the influence of its modulation trough extracellular vesicles. In addition, several drug candidates will be tested in order to explore their efficacy in the disease models.

For the measurement of axonal transport, the project will take advantage of the implemented methodologies of the host lab, including fluorescent peptidic probes to track molecular motors and cytosolic movement.

For the characterization of extracellular vesicles, concentration and size will be analyzed by Nanoparticle Tracking analysis (NTA). Protein analysis will be performed both employing traditional techniques such as Western Blot and ELISAs. To phenotype the characteristics of the Extracellular vesicles fluorescent Quantum Dots will be  engineered to label several external markers.

With the data obtained from the functional analysis and extracellular vesicle characteristics, a profound data analysis will be performed to map the association of functionality to the secretome of neurons. Special relevance will be given to reveal drug action and recovery of damaged functionalities. The discovery of biomarkers related to functionality will set a breakthrough in the efficient assessment of drug efficacy in neurodegenerative diseases, and its validation will be performed in models derived from patients.

The host group has several collaborations with groups experts in neurodegenerative diseases that will enrich the PhD project. For example, the PI has a close collaboration with the lab of Dr. Martinez at CIB-CSIC and Dr. Muñoz-Torrero from the University of Barcelona that will provide research compounds to be tested in the models. The collaboration with Dr. Gascón from Instituto Cajal-CSIC will enable to have motor neuron samples from patients and their extracellular vesicles. Finally, the close collaboration to clinicians will also enable to have clinical samples if needed to validate some of the markers discovered in human fluids.

POSITION DESCRIPTION

For this position a specialized background is required with a PhD in Biological science, biochemistry or pharmacology. Experience in working with extracellular vesicle research, preferably in the neuroscience area is a must. In addition, the work with neurodegenerative disease models including with models derived from patients will be highly valued. Experience in cell culture, protein analysis, cellular imaging and live cell experiments will be needed. Regarding techniques, Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis experience is preferred together with Western Blot, ELISA, and ImageJ or other software. Experience with experimental design, data analysis and statistical work will be required.

We are looking for an enthusiastic researcher, aiming to improve our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases and the finding of new therapeutic molecules. Candidate must have excellent presentation skills, and proficient report writing. The candidate must be able to work in a group and work together/train younger students in the lab.

PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS

Secondments options will be explored with the candidate depending on their particular motivations and could be performed at the research groups of current collaborators of the host group.

    Figure 1. Preview of the scientific approach of the project.