Genetic and molecular basis of nervous system disorders

This theme involves research groups studying pathogenetic mechanisms of neurological and mental diseases, including Parkinson’s disease, motor neuron disorders, epilepsy, neuropathic pain, prion-related disorders, schizophrenia, depression, ADHD, drug addiction and narcolepsy.

Cell cultures, animal models of disease, and human postmortem samples are utilized to identify novel strategies for neural repair and for the improvement of current pharmacological therapies.

Methods employed include behavioral, biochemical and genetic analyses, histochemical/anatomical and optogenetic techniques combined with the use of genetically modified mice. The final aim is to attain a highly translational approach ranging from test tube to animal experimental studies and to clinical trials.

Researchers in this field

10-07-2024