Research work focuses on developmental biology, and particularly on the development of neurons and glia. We use two types of bioassays: primary organotypic cultures, and cell cultures. The aim of the project is getting further knowledge on trophic interactions during neural development and neuronal cell death. Experiments are carried out with primary developing retinal explants from chick and rat embryos, and neuronal or glial established cell lines, with the addition of a series of specific growth factors known as neurotrophins. Recently reported molecules affecting neural cells, like GDNF (and neurturin), and several members of the TGF-beta family are also studied. Furthermore, we look for the cascade of signaling pathways in stimulated nerve or glial cells. We have previously studied and mapped the expression of neurotrophin receptors and serine/thereonine kinase receptors in central-retinal developing neurons. We are extending these studies to different models of active molecules and to the effect on cell death and apoptosis. Projects involve molecular cloning, tissue culture, molecular biology techniques, and several steps for trophic-molecular characterization in our bioassays (see publications of the Group).

 

Staff

CARRI, Néstor Gabriel, Investigador Independiente CONICET - Jefe de Laboratorio
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REYNALDO, Mirta Beatriz, Profesional de Apoyo CICPBA
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MIRANDA, Gisela E., Becario Postdoctoral CONICET
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OVIEDO, Ezequiel C., Concurrente ad honorem bajo la dirección del Dr. Néstor Carri
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