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The main research focus of the Group is the study of the processes of ageing and stress response in organismal level, using as experimental system the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans.

Ageing is the primary risk factor for a host of human pathologies, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. This relationship motivates the basic research on the biology of ageing, as understanding the underlying molecular mechanisms will deliver treatments and interventions that may have translational potential to delay, or prevent, the onset and progression of such diseases. Model organisms have proven valuable in identifying evolutionarily conserved genes and pathways that control ageing and healthspan. C. elegans is the primary model system used for such studies. The Group is currently focusing its research activities on the role of conserved mRNA metabolism factors and protein quality control mechanisms in development, longevity and stress tolerance of C. elegans. Proper regulation of mRNA translation/decay and protein folding/degradation processes is fundamental for organisms to preserve protein homeostasis, which is threatened under stress or during ageing. Loss of protein homeostasis can lead to tissue and cellular dysfunction, with a great impact in health and survival.

Our team is member of the
European Network Genie: Group of Elegans new investigators in Europe