Biosensors and Neurochemistry Lab (BioNLab)

We work on the development of biosensors to study how the brain works at the molecular level, that can be applied for the diagnosis and characterization of neurological diseases. Brain function can be studied and manipulated by controlling brain chemistry. Neurons possess receptors that are sensitive to specific neurotransmitters, such as glutamate, which is the main neurotransmitter in the brain and is involved in important brain functions. Imbalances in glutamate levels have been associated with significant neurological disorders. From a chemical approach, the aim is to develop and validate new contrast agents for magnetic resonance imaging that allow the visualization of glutamatergic function and other neurotransmitters in vivo.