Enzymology, Molecular Biology and Clinical Molecular Biology
Laboratory of Enzymology, Molecular Biology and Clinical Molecular Biology
The research performed by the group is focused on enzymes involved in sphingolipid metabolism and in the control of cellular glycosylation. In particular, we investigate their role in physiological and pathological processes such as tumorigenesis and muscle atrophy. We also perform analyses regarding genetic variants related to sports performance and factors associated with physical activity. The lines of research are the following:
- Study of sialidases in cancer
The research is focalized on the determination of alterations concerning the expression and catalytic activity of sialidases (Neu1, Neu2, Neu3, and Neu4) in neoplastic processes. We study the correlations between these alterations, sphingolipid and sialoglycoprotein cellular patterns, signalling pathways, and tumour phenotype (proliferation, differentiation, invasiveness, drug resistance, and apoptosis).
- Study of sialidases in muscle differentiation
The research is focalized on the evaluation of the involvement of sialidases, in particular sialidase Neu3, in muscle differentiation. We study Neu3 expression and activity during the various steps of muscle differentiation and in relation to muscle cell atrophy and hypertrophy.
- Study of O-glycosylation in muscle atrophy
The research is focalized on the evaluation of O-GlcNAcylation role in muscle atrophy. We study the changes occurring in O-GlcNAcylation levels of cellular proteins in different conditions of atrophy, and the expression and activity of the enzymes involved.
- Biomolecular analyses concerning athletic performance
The research is focalized on the determination of genetic variants related to sports performance in elite athletes. We also evaluate the changes occurring in gene expression of cytokines and the release of circulating microRNAs after aerobic and anaerobic training in elite and recreational athletes, and in sedentary people.
Research group