Our Research

Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a key neurotrophin that supports neuronal survival, differentiation, and synaptic plasticity. It plays a central role in learning, memory, and overall brain function. Alterations in BDNF signaling have been consistently observed across a wide range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, psychiatric illnesses, and neurodevelopmental diseases. Disruptions in its pathways are considered fundamental contributors to disease mechanisms of these pathological conditions. BDNF is also a critical molecule within the heart–brain axis, and maintaining its balance is essential for both neural and cardiovascular health.

The research group of Neurotrophic Factors & Drug Discovery is dedicated to advancing the understanding of BDNF dysfunction and therapeutic strategies to correct its dysfunction with the main objectives of:

1: Investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying the dysfunction of neurotrophic factors, particularly BDNF, in different pathological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, and Rett syndrome.

2: Identify new therapeutic targets related to the specific molecular alterations associated with each disease and develop innovative pharmacological strategies to reverse neurotrophic factor dysfunctions.

Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common neurodegenerative disorder and one of the most socioeconomic burdensome pathologies that still goes uncured. Lack of innovative treatments and therapeutic targets contribute for the continuous failure in providing effective disease-modifying treatments.
Epilepsy

Epilepsy affects over 100,000 people in Portugal and between 50 and 65 million people worldwide. This brain disorder is characterized by an enduring predisposition to generate epileptic seizures and impacts patients on multiple levels (biological, psychological, and social). Currently, antiseizure drugs (ASDs) only control the symptoms (seizures), highlighting the urgent need to develop disease-modifying therapies.
Rett Syndrome

Rett Syndrome is a rare genetic neurodevelopmental disorder affecting about 1 in 10,000–15,000 girls. After a period of normal early development, symptoms typically emerge between 6 and 18 months, followed by regression. Key features include loss of acquired skills, repetitive hand movements, cognitive and motor impairments, and frequent epilepsy. There is currently no cure, and only limited treatments exist to manage symptoms, making the condition highly challenging for patients and caregivers.