del Río has developed an axotomy microfluidic device system that allows for simultaneous 3D co-culture and compartmentalization of mouse embryonic ventral spinal cord explants and skeletal muscle. We aim to enhance the intrinsic capacity of peripheral nerves to regenerate by modulating neuronal activity. In this proposal we plan to use optogenetics (genetic manipulation to express light-sensitive proteins) and photophamacology (the development of light-regulated drugs) as tools to control neuronal activity. The manipulation of neuronal activity with light is currently the state of the art approach to investigate the nervous system, due to its specificity and capacity to induce more physiological neural activation. Moreover, it has also been seen that neuronal activity can lead to regeneration in the peripheral nervous system (PNS). Neuronal activity has long been known to modulate many processes during development. Understanding the basic mechanisms of neural regeneration after injury is a pre-requisite for developing appropriate treatments. Beyond surgical repair of the nerve, there are currently no treatment options for these patients.
Pau Gorostiza Research projectĪxonal injuries can result in paralysis and profound degenerative alterations to skeletal muscle leading to muscle atrophy, force deficits, even after repair employing micro-surgical techniques.José Antonio del Rio / Nanoprobes and nanoswitches group.Molecular and cellular neurobiotechnology group
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